Spring flooding and ice melts mean extra danger for Saskatchewan residents.
As Saskatchewan prepares for unavoidable flooding this spring, the Lifesaving Society wishes to remind all residents of the danger of flood water and ice melts.
"This is a very dangerous time of year for everyone. There are open bodies of water appearing in places we normally walk or drive through such as back alleys, highways, ditches and fields. Not only do we have to remember that the ice is no longer safe to walk on but we have to navigate around all of the flooded areas", says Lifesaving Society CEO Shelby Rushton.
Everyone should take extra precautions. Keep pets on a leash, keep children within arms reach and consider doing indoor recreational activities with the kids until the temporary lake in your yard or alley dries up. Do not attempt to walk on any remaining ice or though any large pools of open water.
Motorists should also take extra precaution. Slow down when driving near ditches or fields with water and do not attempt to drive through a flooded roadway. In the last five years, there have been over ten drowning fatalities due to vehicle submersion.
If someone does fall through thin ice or into open water, do not panic and do not approach the hole and risk falling through as well. First, call 911, then assist from a distance with encouragement and a long assist, such as a rope, ladder or long tree branch. Do NOT enter the water or go onto the ice to rescue the victim. When the victim grabs the assist, pull gently to ease him or her out of the water. Help the individual to safety, approach and remove the person's wet clothing when dry garments are available, and seek emergency assistance if necessary. Remember - reach or throw, but don't go.
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. With more than 100 years of experience in water safety and rescue, the Lifesaving Society is your first source for information.
