Thin Ice. Thin Ice Safety Rules

Due to the cold weather and falling air temperatures, rivers and lakes freeze. Covered with thin ice, rivers and lakes pose a danger that can become a deadly trap. Every year during this period, tragic cases of people falling through the ice are recorded. Sometimes this happens due to carelessness, and sometimes due to ignorance of safety rules. But the result is always the same - a lost life.

Why is thin ice dangerous?

Uneven thickness: the ice can be thin in some places and thick in others.
The strength of the ice depends on many factors: air temperature, depth of the reservoir, current, presence of underwater springs and heat sources.
False signs of strength: even if the ice looks strong and covered with snow, it can be thin and fragile
Weather change: rising air temperature, rain, wind can weaken the ice and make it dangerous.

Safety rules on thin ice:

Check the strength of the ice. To do this, you can use a stick, stepping carefully on the ice.
Do not go out on the ice alone. In case of danger, help will be needed.
Do not go out on the ice in places with a fast current. The ice is always thinner in these places.
Do not gather on the ice in large groups. This leads to excessive pressure on the ice and can cause it to fail.

If you fall through the ice:

Do not panic. This will help you save your strength and make the right decisions.
Call for help. Shout loudly to attract people's attention.
Try to throw off heavy things. This will give you a better chance of rescue.
Try to get out on the ice. Try to lie on your back, spread your arms out to the sides, and try to cling to the edge of the ice.
Try to crawl to the shore. Crawl in the direction you came from, trying to distribute your weight evenly.
Do not stand up. This can lead to a fall into a deeper place.

Thin ice is not a place for games and entertainment. Do not risk your life, follow safety rules.

In case of emergency, please call 112 or 101!