Anglers On Thin Ice: What To Do If Someone Falls Through

Don’t attempt a rescue yourself if someone falls through the ice, but call 911 and summon trained professionals, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard says. (Photo via Wikipedia/Creative Commons)

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Ice fishing has long been a winter tradition in Michigan, but as temperatures continue to increase, the season is coming to an end.

No ice is 100 percent safe as bodies of water around Oakland County rapidly thaw, Sheriff Michael Bouchard said in a news release.

“As we experience increasing temperatures and spring weather, it is important to remember that no ice is safe at this point in the season,” he said. “Remind friends and family of these safety tips which can potentially prevent a tragedy on our rivers, lakes, and streams.”

Related:

• DNR Releases Important Ice-Fishing Dates

Changes in ice conditions can be observed in any body of water. Many accidents have occurred near areas that have experienced freeze-thaw cycles that have weakened the ice.

This process produces frazzle ice, which is ice that contains tiny air pockets and often looks like frozen slush. It can appear milky white or black in color and is extremely dangerous for everyone, including pets.

Below are some ice safety tips in case you are in a dangerous situation related to ice:

• If you hear the ice crack or detect unsafe ice you should immediately spread out, lie down (which will distribute your weight) and crawl back to safer ice using the same path previously taken.
• If someone falls through the ice, do not run to the hole. First, call 911 and get help on the way and then use a pole, branch, rope, or any other object, which can be extended to the victim from a safe position. You cannot help if you also become a victim.
• If you fall through the ice, do not panic, as this will only hinder your own self-rescue actions. Call out for help and kick your feet while getting your hands and then arms up onto safer ice. An ice awl or screwdriver can help you with your self-rescue. Continue to “swim” up onto the ice far enough to crawl or “roll-out”
• Pets that venture onto unsafe ice are a major cause for many near drowning incidents and deaths. If you find your pet has ventured out onto the ice, resist the urge to go out after them. Stay at a safe place on shore and persuade them back to safety.

The deadline has already passed for the removal of ice shanties in the Lower Peninsula. Shanties may legally remain in place on the U.P. through the end of the month. Owners of shanties that aren’t removed and fall through the ice are subject to fines.