Behavior in case of accidents on ice
The German Fire Brigades Association (DFV) warns against walking on unapproved ice surfaces: "Despite the current sub-zero temperatures, many ice surfaces are too thin; there is a risk of collapse," explains DFV Vice President Hermann Schreck. Even the frost that has prevailed in many parts of Germany over the past few days does not guarantee that the ice cover on lakes or rivers is stable.
Children in particular can be tempted by the glistening ice to behave carelessly. "Only step onto approved ice surfaces!" warns Schreck. The local authorities are responsible for clearing the ice.
- A few tips from the fire departments should be followed to ensure a safe outing:
- Take local warnings seriously. The dangers must be explained to children.
- Avoid solitary outings on the ice - otherwise, in the event of an accident, there may be no one to help.
- If the ice crackles and cracks, shows cracks or gushes of water on the surface: do not go on it. If you are already on the ice: Lie down flat to distribute your weight over a larger area, crawl to the shore (as few jerky movements as possible).
- In the event of an accident, call 112 for help immediately or arrange for someone to make an emergency call! A guide at an agreed location can make it easier for the rescue services to reach the scene, especially if the terrain is unclear. Marked rescue points make it easier for the fire department to find them.
- Caution is not only required in flowing water, snow-covered surfaces and overgrown banks; the ice thickness can also suddenly decrease at inlets and outlets. The ice can be too thin, especially in dark places - there is a risk of collapse here!
- "Within a few minutes in water that is around four degrees cold, the muscles slacken, the body goes limp and the person who has fallen in goes under," explains Vice President Schreck.
The fire department association gives the following tips on what to do in the event of an accident: - Anyone who collapses should try to carefully hold on to the ice or pull on it. If the ice continues to break, you can use your fists or elbows to help yourself to the shore.
- Helpers should not put themselves in danger: Make sure you are secured (lines/ life jacket/ life belt) and do not venture too far out.
- Anyone who goes onto the ice to help should use a support (ladder, boards, fence, field hockey stick) to distribute the weight. The aids can be pushed to the person who has broken in. A carpet pad or branches laid across the burglary site will make the rescue easier. Rescue rings suspended from bodies of water can also be helpful.
- Wrap rescued persons in warm blankets (rescue blanket) or jackets, warm them carefully, do not rub them with snow as a "household remedy".
- Do not give hypothermic persons alcohol, instead give them warm tea if possible.