LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — With winter weather settling in, some people may head outdoors to take part in cold-weather activities such as ice skating, ice fishing or hiking. First responders are reminding the public to take extra precautions before venturing onto frozen rivers, lakes and ponds.
While cold temperatures may make ice appear solid, officials warn that fluctuating weather can weaken ice conditions, making it more dangerous than it looks.
First responders urge anyone planning to go out on the ice to bring another person, tell others where they are going, carry a cell phone in case of an emergency and learn what to do if the ice breaks.
While cold temperatures may make ice appear solid, officials warn that fluctuating weather can weaken ice conditions, making it more dangerous than it looks.
“If you're the only person there, you if you fall down, you need to get horizontal, you need to roll off the ice." said Warren Pughsley, and inspector with the Lima Fire Department "Don't panic. A lot of times people panic, and then that just makes the situation worse.”
Pughsley also recommends wearing bright-colored clothing so rescuers or bystanders can more easily locate someone in trouble.
Officials say ice should be at least 4 inches thick before it is considered safe to walk on, and they remind residents that no ice is ever completely safe.
