Caution: treacherous ice! Rescuers and the Belarusian Voluntary Society for the Rescue of Persons on Water (OSVOD) remind about safety on reservoirs
January 8, 2026
Caution: Treacherous Ice! Rescuers and OSVOD Remind About Water Safety
Ice formation continues on the water bodies of the district. However, rescuers warn that even formed ice remains a source of increased danger. As part of the "Thin Ice" preventive campaign, representatives of the Beshenkovichi District Emergency Situations Department, together with a representative of OSVOD, conducted a special raid to remind residents about safety rules.
Specialists visited popular waterfront locations: Poluozerye Lake in the village of Sokolovo, Slobodskoye Lake near the village of Strizhevo, and the Ulla River in the agro-town of Bocheikovo. On the lakes, the ice thickness in some places is about 10-12 cm. Despite this, it is not a reason to lose vigilance. The situation on the rivers is even more alarming. In many places, ice has formed only near the shore, and where it exists, it is loose and unstable due to the current. Such ice cannot support a person's weight and is a trap.
During the raid, conversations were held with fishermen. Rescuers once again reminded them of vital rules:
· Do not allow children to go on the ice without adult supervision! Tell them about the dangers.
· It is forbidden to go on the ice during its active formation (freezing) and spring thawing.
· It is strictly forbidden to test the strength of the ice by kicking it.
· Avoid dangerous areas: places near reeds, where streams flow in, under snowdrifts.
Amateur fishermen are strongly advised to have basic rescue equipment with them: an "Alexander's end," rescue spikes, or a strong rope 15-20 meters long.
The main takeaway from rescuers is simple: do not take unnecessary risks. Refrain from going onto the ice if there are doubts about its strength, and under no circumstances go onto it alone. If you witness a person in distress, call 101 or 112 immediately. Do not attempt to rescue a person by going onto the ice yourself – throw them a stick, a board, or a rope from the shore.
Remember that your caution and responsible attitude towards the rules are the key to the safety of your life and the lives of your loved ones. Take care of yourselves!
"ZARA"