Spring ice: treacherous and dangerous. A memo from the Ministry of Emergency Situations

Spring Ice: Treacherous and Dangerous. A Memo from the Ministry of Emergency Situations

In 24 hours, 2 people drowned in the Vitebsk region, in the Rossony and Polotsk districts.

Spring is a time of nature's awakening, but at the same time, it is a period when water bodies become particularly dangerous. Melting ice, which appears solid, hides a deadly threat. The Ministry of Emergency Situations reminds you of safety rules on spring water bodies.

Why is spring ice different from winter ice?

Ice Structure: Under the influence of sunlight and rising temperatures, ice loses its strength. It becomes loose, porous, and its structure is disrupted. Often, cloudy water forms on the surface, making the ice less transparent and more brittle.
Melting: The melting process begins from the edges and from the shore. Currents appear in the water under the ice, which erode it from below.
Unevenness: The ice cover can be covered with cracks, which deepen every day. Open water areas, called "protaliny," also appear.

Signs of Dangerous Spring Ice:

Cloudy, grayish, or yellowish hue: Such ice has lost its original density and strength.
Looseness and porosity: If you see that the ice crumbles underfoot or looks like "snow porridge," it is very dangerous.
Cracks: The appearance of even small cracks radiating from your point of support indicates that the ice will not support your weight.
Sound of water under the ice: If you hear gurgling or the sound of water under the ice cover, be extremely careful.
Presence of open water areas, holes: Open water areas are a clear sign of danger.

Where it is strictly forbidden to be on spring ice:

In places where the ice has an uneven structure, color, or damage.
Near the mouths of rivers, streams, springs, as well as in places with fast currents.
Near vegetation (reeds, bushes), where the ice is often thinner.
In areas where active ice melting is observed or open water areas have already appeared.

How to avoid accidents:

Do not go out on the ice during the active melting period. Wait until the ice has completely melted or until its thickness and structure are safe.
Do not take risks by trying to cut across a body of water. It is better to go around it along the shore.
If you are fishing, strictly adhere to the recommended safety rules. Do not approach the edge of the water body, use proven spots and tackle.
Explain to children that spring ice is not a place for games. Do not let them go to water bodies alone.
If you see someone on dangerous spring ice, do not try to rescue them yourself if you are not confident in your abilities. Call rescuers immediately.

If a person has fallen through spring ice:

Immediately report the incident to the rescue service by calling 112 or 101.
Find any available means: a rope, stick, board, scarf, mitten.
Crawl to the scene of the incident, spreading your arms and legs wide to distribute your weight as much as possible.
Hand the victim what you found, but stay a safe distance from the edge of the ice floe yourself.
Give commands to the victim so that they act according to your instructions.
As soon as the victim grabs on, begin to slowly and carefully pull them out, crawling on your stomach.
After rescue, provide first aid: remove wet clothing, cover the person with something warm, give hot tea (if the victim is conscious).

Remember: Spring ice is a deceptive phenomenon. Its fragility and unpredictability can lead to tragic consequences. Attentiveness, caution, and adherence to safety rules are the main companions for everyone near water bodies during the spring period.

Verkhnedvinsk Regional Department for Emergency Situations calls for vigilance! Your life is in your hands!