State Police provide Ice Safety Tips and Rescue Demonstrations

On Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at 10:00 a.m., the Massachusetts State Police demonstrated the inherent dangers of thin ice and lifesaving steps that one should take if involved in an ice emergency. This press event was held at the Charles River Esplanade Lagoon in Boston.

With school vacation week upcoming and milder temperatures not far behind, State Police will also provide a warning to the public about the danger posed by thawing ice.

At the event, State Police Officers assigned to the Underwater Recovery Unit and the Marine Section provided the public with safety tips and demonstrated recoveries. Demonstrations included use of the State Police air boat, ice penetration dives, and rescues.

The following winter ice safety tips were provided:

• Use designated ice surfaces and check with local Officials.
  Many communities have designated ponds or outdoor ice surfaces - for activities such as skating - that are maintained by knowledgeable personnel. Designated ice should be regularly tested to ensure that it is thick enough and strong enough for recreational use.
• 
  Ice thickness may vary in same location.
  Local conditions such as currents and water depths can affect ice thickness. White ice has air or snow within it and should be considered suspect for recreational use. The recommended minimum ice thickness for new, clear, hard ice is as follows:

3" (7 cm) or less: STAY OFF
4" (10 cm): ice fishing, walking, cross-country skiing, skating
5" (12 cm): one snowmobile or ATV
8-12" (20-30 cm): one car or small pickup
12-15"ââ'¬ (30-38 cm): one medium truck (pickup or van)