| Group/ Marine Safety Office Detroit U.S. Coast Guard |
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| Press Release |
Date: January, 14, 2005 Contact: |
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COAST GUARD WARNS THE PUBLIC OF THE DANGERS WITH ICE DETROIT - With tempatures dropping to the teens this weekend, the Coast Guard is warning the public of the dangers of ice and cold weather. Ice is a solid risk. Winter activities often include ice fishing, snowmobile riding and hunting. Those who venture out to enjoy the great outdoors all too often find themselves in danger; an ice floe breaks off, falling through the ice or long exposure to the elements. Cold water can quickly impair a person’s mobility if he or she should fall in, which can then result in drowning. Proper precautions should always be taken before heading out on the water or the ice. When venturing out, a person should think ICE as a precaution: Intelligence – know the weather and ice conditions, know where you are going, and know how to call for help. Never go out alone. Clothing – have the proper clothing to prevent hypothermia. Wear a waterproof exposure suit and a life preserver. Equipment – have the proper equipment. Carry two ice picks or screwdrivers, in case you fall in. Use these items to dig into the ice and pull yourself out. They are more effective than bare hands! Carry a whistle or noise maker to alert people that you are in distress. Carry a cellular phone or marine band radio in a waterproof container so that you can call for help if you come across trouble. Hypothermia becomes the greatest danger after falling through the ice. Hypothermia begins to set in quickly as the person’s body core temperature drops below 95 degrees.
These tips may help increase a person’s chance for survival, should they fall thought the ice:
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