With the latest heavy snowfall and warmer temperatures on the way, the Lifesaving Society (Saskatchewan Branch) wants to remind everyone to exercise caution around bodies of water and stay off the ice.
“Ice on any body of water is very unstable during the Spring melt, and the water is still very cold, increasing the risk for hypothermia, so it is important that everyone, including animals, stay off the ice,” says Shelby Rushton, CEO of the Lifesaving Society. “Falling through the ice is often a factor in drowning incidents, and it’s one that is easily prevented by taking some extra precautions and staying away from and off the ice.”
If someone does fall through thin ice, don’t panic and don’t get too close to the hole or you may fall in as well. Call for help, and then offer assistance from a distance using encouragement and a long assist – a rope, ladder, hockey stick, etc. If there is a lifejacket or buoyant object around, the rescuer should put it on to protect themselves in case they fall in, too.
When the victim grabs the assist, pull gently to ease him or her out of the water. Then, tell the person to crawl along the ice with their feet spread out wide. After helping the victim to safety, approach and remove the person’s wet clothing when dry clothes or blankets are available, and seek emergency assistance, if necessary. Always remember to reach or throw, but don’t go.
The Society also cautions drivers to be cautious on roadways during icy conditions. “There have been too many submerged vehicle-related incidents of late causing fatalities. Drivers need to slow down in snowy or icy conditions to prevent their vehicle from leaving the road and ending up in a water-filled ditch or large body of water such as a river or dugout.”
The Lifesaving Society is a national, charitable organization working to prevent drowning and water-related injuries through lifeguard training, water safety education, research and advocacy. It is the only organization in Saskatchewan that specializes in water safety and rescue. With more than 100 years of experience in water safety and rescue, the Lifesaving Society is your first source for information.
