Warning: Stay Off Thin Ice in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Greifswald, Germany – The police in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern are urging residents to avoid venturing onto newly formed ice surfaces, as they pose a significant danger. While the region has experienced freezing temperatures, the ice on bodies of water such as the Ryck River in Greifswald and the Knieperteich Pond in Stralsund is still too thin to support human weight. Should someone fall through the ice, they face an immediate life-threatening situation.
Acute Risk of Hypothermia
A police spokesperson in Stralsund emphasized the critical nature of the situation, particularly for children. When someone falls into icy water, hypothermia can set in rapidly. Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit, causing a range of symptoms including shivering, confusion, and weakness. If not treated promptly, hypothermia can lead to unconsciousness and even death.
Thin Ice Often Misleading
The appearance of ice on water can be deceptive. Even if a portion of the surface appears solid, it may not be thick enough to withstand the weight of a person. The thickness of ice varies depending on factors such as water depth, current, and air temperature. Ice formation near the edges of bodies of water or in areas with moving water is particularly unstable.
Children at Particular Risk
Children are especially vulnerable to the dangers of thin ice. Their smaller bodies lose heat more quickly than adults, and they may not be aware of the risks involved. Parents and guardians are urged to supervise children closely near any body of water, regardless of the season.
Thin Ice Safety Precautions
- Never venture onto ice that is not at least four inches thick.
- Check the ice thickness with a long stick or pole. If the ice cracks or bends when you step on it, it is not safe to cross.
- Avoid areas with flowing water, such as rivers or streams.
- Stay away from ice that has a milky or honeycombed appearance, as this indicates weak ice.
- If you fall through the ice, try to remain calm. Do not attempt to climb out of the water immediately, as the edges of the ice may be sharp and unstable. Instead, roll towards the nearest safe edge and try to pull yourself out.
- If you cannot get out of the water, call for help. Dial 112 or use your whistle or signaling device to attract attention.
Additional Information
The last day of winter break in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is Friday. School will resume on Monday. The police are urging parents to reinforce these safety messages with their children before they return to school.
