Post by loggy on Dec 23, 2007 12:02:09 GMT -4
Found this Excellent Ice Fishing Safety info on the PF&BC Site:
Here are some quick tips from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission for staying safe around ice:
-Know the ice. Thick blue/black ice is stronger than milky white ice
-Four inches of solid ice is the minimum recommended level for people - thicker for a group or equipment. Use an auger to test the thickness of ice before you go out on it.
-Perimeter ice is weaker due to shifting, expansion and sunlight reflecting off the bottom. Avoid areas with protruding logs, brush, plants and docks. These structures can absorb heat from the sun, thus weakening the surrounding ice.
-Single, unbroken pressure cracks in the ice are probably okay to cross, but stay away from areas where cracks meet or intersect.
Know how weather affects ice.
-Although blustery days may feel colder to us, wind can actually weaken surface ice.
-Changing air temperatures and standing water on ice can weaken and crack it.
-Venturing out alone is not advisable. Take a friend along for safety's sake – and to increase your fun.
-Wear a life jacket – if you fall through, it can keep you afloat while help is on the way.
-Carry ice awls to help with self-rescue.
Know how to react if you witness an accident
-Call 911 immediately.
-Immersion into cold water often disorients a victim so the quick action of witnesses is crucial. Do not, however, attempt to run to the ice’s edge because chances are you’ll fall through as well.
-If you must attempt rescue, be cautious. Stand back from the weakened ice and toss a rope or heavy cord toward the victim. Extend a ladder or long tree limb, lying flat to spread out weight.
-Once the victim is on shore, remember that the rescue isn’t over. Hypothermia poses as much risk as drowning. Keep the victim warm and get immediate professional medical help.
Here are some quick tips from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission for staying safe around ice:
-Know the ice. Thick blue/black ice is stronger than milky white ice
-Four inches of solid ice is the minimum recommended level for people - thicker for a group or equipment. Use an auger to test the thickness of ice before you go out on it.
-Perimeter ice is weaker due to shifting, expansion and sunlight reflecting off the bottom. Avoid areas with protruding logs, brush, plants and docks. These structures can absorb heat from the sun, thus weakening the surrounding ice.
-Single, unbroken pressure cracks in the ice are probably okay to cross, but stay away from areas where cracks meet or intersect.
Know how weather affects ice.
-Although blustery days may feel colder to us, wind can actually weaken surface ice.
-Changing air temperatures and standing water on ice can weaken and crack it.
-Venturing out alone is not advisable. Take a friend along for safety's sake – and to increase your fun.
-Wear a life jacket – if you fall through, it can keep you afloat while help is on the way.
-Carry ice awls to help with self-rescue.
Know how to react if you witness an accident
-Call 911 immediately.
-Immersion into cold water often disorients a victim so the quick action of witnesses is crucial. Do not, however, attempt to run to the ice’s edge because chances are you’ll fall through as well.
-If you must attempt rescue, be cautious. Stand back from the weakened ice and toss a rope or heavy cord toward the victim. Extend a ladder or long tree limb, lying flat to spread out weight.
-Once the victim is on shore, remember that the rescue isn’t over. Hypothermia poses as much risk as drowning. Keep the victim warm and get immediate professional medical help.