Crime & Safety
Coast Guard Reminds People to Think I.C.E. Before Heading onto the Lake
With the warm temperatures predicted this weekend, the U.S. Coast Guard warns those heading out onto the ice of possible unsafe conditions.
The 9th Coast Guard District has issued a warning that the unusually warm temperatures have greatly increased the possibility of weakened ice.
With temperatures forecasted to reach nearly 60 degrees, ice has become thin and unsafe, which increases the likelihood of people falling through the ice, according to a release.
"Due to these unseasonably warm temperatures, ice across the Great Lakes is deteriorating quickly, and conditions are becoming inherently unsafe," said Frank Jennings Jr., 9th Coast Guard District Recreational Boating and Water Safety Program manager, in a release.
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The U.S. Coast Guard reminds people to think I.C.E. before heading out:
Intelligence — know the weather and ice conditions, know where you are going, and know how to call for help. Never go out alone.
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Clothing — have the proper clothing to prevent hypothermia. Wear a waterproof exposure suit and a life preserver.
Equipment — have the proper equipment. Carry ice picks or screwdrivers, in case you fall in. Use these items to dig into the ice and pull yourself out; they are more effective than bare hands. Carry a whistle or other sound-producing device to alert people that you are in distress. Carry a cellular phone or marine band radio in a waterproof container so that you can call for help if you come across trouble.
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