Pond Ice Skating Safety

As a young child, I remember cold winter afternoons walking through the woods. There was nothing more exciting than carrying our skates over our shoulders for an afternoon of winter fun. Dad would be carrying skates, and a shovel. Mom would have a blanket and a large thermos of hot chocolate. Dozens of people would be on this secluded pond. While we children could never locate it during idle summer months, Dad always seemed to know exactly where it was in the dead of winter. It seems so nostalgic and almost surreal. These bygone days seem so simple. But there is a serious warning too.

As the cold weather sets upon us, so does outdoor ice skating. While this simple winter pastime is fun and memorable, there is also a hidden danger. ICE! The obvious danger is that skaters need to be mindful of the temperature. Ponds take a while to solidly freeze. Do not go near the ice unless temperatures have been consistently in the twenties or below. Even when temps are hovering near or below freezing, sunlight can increase the heat on the pond’s surface, making skating dangerous. Ice should be clear, blue or black. Ice should be clear of standing or moving water or puddles.

Ice is not quiet. I remember a number of times in my childhood, when my brother and I would race off the ice when we would hear a “cracking” noise. Ice takes up more space than liquid water. Therefore, it expands. It makes noise as the ice is pushing up and out. Solid white expansion cracks may visible. Beware, they are often uneven, as the ice pushes up in some places. If there is water coming from the cracks, or there are gaps, the ice is unsafe.

The greatest danger in outdoor skating is breakage. What would happen if the ice broke? Most people do not realize, but hypothermia sets in so quickly, there is no time to think. Knowing what to do will save your life. Being underwater is deceptively bright. Because the ice reflects the light, it is very bright. Most people think they are swimming to the surface. This is the greatest danger. Victims swim upward and hit their heads on the ice. The black hole, or dark spot is what you are looking for. This is the opening in the ice. This is the escape route. The dark hole is safety. Victims should use their hands to feel the underside of the ice if they are unable to see under the water.

For people on the surface after someone has fallen through the ice, move away. Its sounds ridiculous, but curiosity has sent many a bystander into the water. Call 911 and give your location. When the victim surfaces, you will need to be working smart and quickly. Do not rush to the victim unless you are anxious to double the number of people in the chilly water. Lay flat on the ice, at a safe distance from the break in the ice. Find a long object, such as a branch. If you brought a shovel to clear the surface, the handle will work. A hockey stick is a superior choice, Or, tie scarves together. Use anything that the victim can hold. Pull the victim out if you can do so safely, otherwise, provide stability and reassurance. Help will be there quickly.

While ice skating is a winter is a favorite pastime in our colder climates, safety should never be overlooked. Always let someone know where you will be. Bring a cell phone. The handle of a shovel is a great tool. Bring the shovel. Ice should be clear, blue or black. Make sure everyone is aware to look for the dark hole in the ice. It’s the lifesaver.