How to determine the strength of ice by its appearance?

Before taking the first step from the shore, it is necessary to carefully examine the surface. The color of the ice can tell a lot about its reliability:

- Blue or greenish hue: the strongest and safest ice;

- White (matte) ice: twice as weak as transparent ice; it forms when slush freezes, its structure is porous and brittle;

- Gray, yellowish, or dark ice: the most dangerous; this is a sign that the ice is saturated with water, has begun to thaw, or is breaking apart. It is strictly forbidden to step on it.

It is important to remember: ice at least 7–10 centimeters thick is considered safe for one person to cross. For a group of people or to set up an ice rink, this indicator should be at least 15–20 centimeters.

Golden Safety Rules

1. Never test the strength of the ice by kicking it. This is the most common mistake, leading to an immediate fall through. Use an ice pick or a long stick to test. If water appears after the first strike, immediately turn back.

2. Move in your own tracks. You should return with a sliding step, without lifting your feet off the surface and keeping them shoulder-width apart to distribute the load.

3. Avoid dangerous areas. Ice is always thinner in places with fast currents, near bushes, grass, reeds protruding from the surface, and also where streams flow into the body of water or where wastewater is discharged.

4. Maintain distance. When crossing a body of water in a group, keep a distance of at least 5–6 meters from each other.

Equipment for Fishermen

If you decide to go out on the ice for fishing, your arsenal should include rescue equipment.

"Ice picks": two spikes with comfortable handles connected by a cord. They are hung around the neck and help to grip the ice if you fall into the water.

Rope: a strong cord 15–20 meters long with a loop at one end and a weight at the other.

Vest: wearing a life jacket at the beginning of the season is not a whim, but a necessity.

What to do if you fall through?

The main thing is not to panic. Cold water causes shock, but you have a few minutes to act.

1. Do not make sudden movements, stabilize your breathing.

2. Spread your arms wide to avoid going under the ice headfirst, and try to grip the edge of the ice.

3. Try to get out on the side from which you came (the ice there has already been tested by your weight).

4. Crawl onto the ice on your chest, with your arms spread wide, and alternately pull your legs onto the surface.

5. Once out, do not stand up! Roll away from the ice hole and crawl to the shore the same way you came.

For Parents: The Price of Attention

Special attention should be paid to children. The first ice is an object for games for them. Explain to the child that going out onto a frozen body of water without adult supervision is unacceptable. Do not leave children unattended near rivers and lakes, as in case of trouble, a child may get confused and not call for help in time.

Remember: no fishing or walking is worth your life. Be sensible and take care of yourself!

"Vitebskie Vesti"