April 15, 2007
Brought to you by The YKHC Injury Prevention Department
Summer is almost here! Those cold dark winter days are all but over, and the sun has begun sticking around longer. If you're like me, you've begun to think about tuning up the boat, and reaching for the tackle box.
As these changes take place, the ice on the river is weakening. This makes it increasingly important to be alert when traveling on the river. As you make your last few trips traveling over the ice, here are some tips to help make your travel a safe one:
- Always wear a Personal Floatation Device!
- It is always best to NEVER travel alone!
- Watch out for open holes along the trails and beware of different ice conditions. Dark ice, brown ice, and purple ice is always unsafe, and any water-covered ice is extremely dangerous.
Preparation
To prepare for any emergency situation when traveling over ice, the following items are essential:
- an ice pick-to check ice thickness
- a first aid kit
- extra clothing
- extra food
- a fire starter
- a signal, rope and necessary survival gear
Also, you will need the following for your snow machine:
- extra fuel
- starting fluid
- a tool kit
- spark plugs
- a drive belt
- a starter cord
- an owner's manual
Before you leave, make sure you tell a responsible person your travel plan that includes:
- Where you are going
- Who will be traveling
- What route you plan to take (if you change destination or route be sure to inform the responsible person of your changes)
- What you are taking (equipment)
- How long you plan to be gone
- When you plan to return