01-19-2008, 03:06 AM
safety guidelines for walking or fishing on the ice:
[ul] [li]Before venturing out onto the ice, check with local sources for the most up-to-date information on ice conditions. [li]Always fish with a buddy whenever possible and always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. [li]Do not go out on any ice unless you test the thickness and quality with a spud first. [li]Avoid areas where there are inlets or outlets due to moving water under the ice. [li]Avoid areas where there are natural springs. [li]Avoid the ice around structures, docks and pilings. [li]Pay attention to wind direction especially when fishing on large bodies of waters. If the wind direction is just right, it can blow the ice out and away from shore leaving anglers stranded. [li]Wear a personal floatation device. Also, carry a couple of large nails and a length of nylon rope. If you should go through the ice, the nails could help provide a grip on the slippery surface and aid in getting you out. [li]If you do break through the ice, try not to panic. Remember to turn toward the direction you came from -- toward the ice that supported you. Use the nails or your hands to gain a hold on the unbroken surface as an aid in getting out. [li]Once you are out of the water and are lying on the ice, don't stand. Roll away from the point where you broke through until you are on solid ice. [li]If you see someone fall through the ice, do not run toward the person. Carefully extend a rope, ladder, pole or line to the victim. [li]Always get the victim to a hospital emergency room as soon as possible for treatment.[/li][/ul]
[signature]
[ul] [li]Before venturing out onto the ice, check with local sources for the most up-to-date information on ice conditions. [li]Always fish with a buddy whenever possible and always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. [li]Do not go out on any ice unless you test the thickness and quality with a spud first. [li]Avoid areas where there are inlets or outlets due to moving water under the ice. [li]Avoid areas where there are natural springs. [li]Avoid the ice around structures, docks and pilings. [li]Pay attention to wind direction especially when fishing on large bodies of waters. If the wind direction is just right, it can blow the ice out and away from shore leaving anglers stranded. [li]Wear a personal floatation device. Also, carry a couple of large nails and a length of nylon rope. If you should go through the ice, the nails could help provide a grip on the slippery surface and aid in getting you out. [li]If you do break through the ice, try not to panic. Remember to turn toward the direction you came from -- toward the ice that supported you. Use the nails or your hands to gain a hold on the unbroken surface as an aid in getting out. [li]Once you are out of the water and are lying on the ice, don't stand. Roll away from the point where you broke through until you are on solid ice. [li]If you see someone fall through the ice, do not run toward the person. Carefully extend a rope, ladder, pole or line to the victim. [li]Always get the victim to a hospital emergency room as soon as possible for treatment.[/li][/ul]
[signature]