Rules of conduct and safety for children on ice

The ice thickness on water bodies is not uniform. Thin ice is found near the shores, in areas of shoals and rapids, at the confluence of rivers or their mouths into the sea (lake), at bends, curves, near submerged objects, underground springs, and in places where warm water and sewage are discharged into water bodies.

Ice under snow and snowdrifts is extremely dangerous and unreliable. Polynyas, ice holes, cracks, and small openings covered with a thin layer of ice pose a danger. This ice breaks when stepped on, and a person can unexpectedly find themselves in cold water.

Ice covered with a thick layer of snow is particularly dangerous, as the water underneath freezes slowly and unevenly.

During ice drift, a large number of ice floes appear on rivers and water bodies, which attract children. Many consider sliding and other entertainment on ice floes to be "heroic deeds." These amusements often end with swimming in icy water, as ice floes frequently capsize, break apart, collide with each other, and strike objects in the water.

After falling into the water, you should get to the shore as quickly as possible by holding onto an ice floe, swimming, or supporting yourself with your hands on the ice floe, lie on it with your chest, stay afloat, and call for help. Help can be provided to someone who has fallen using floating devices, ropes, or sticks.

Basic rules of conduct if the ice breaks:

1. Do not panic, discard heavy items, stay afloat, and call for help;

2. Support yourself on the edge of the ice floe with your arms spread wide; if there is a strong current, bend your legs and remove your shoes that have filled with water;

3. Try not to break the ice edge, lean on it with your chest, and alternately lift and pull your legs onto the ice floe;

4. Keep your head high above the water surface and constantly call for help.

Adults and children, observe the rules of conduct on water bodies; adherence to elementary safety measures is the key to your safety.