Ice Safety

The tragedy in Parker yesterday highlights a safety alert about the dangers around frozen lakes and ponds.

At Monument Lake today, ice fishermen braved the wind and cold, many fully geared up. They say they wouldn’t come here without being prepared.

Jeff Evans, who was out fishing on the ice today, shared his thoughts. “You know, just paying attention to the ice conditions… you can get an ice report from most sport shops and bait shops. And, obviously when you’re drilling your ice you can check the depth and pay attention. Try not to be on ice that’s less than eight inches, you know, is a good safe number.”

Ice Rescue team members say water under the surface is always right around 39- degrees. and you have roughly 3 to 5 minutes to get out before losing strength.

Gary Trojanovich, an ice rescue expert with the Colorado Springs Fire Department has very practical advice after having been part of multiple exercises and rescues: “The only thing I can tell you is the ice in Colorado is unsafe. Stay off of it, be aware, and make sure that you have the proper gear.”

Some things to keep in mind before hitting the ice:

– Never go out on any frozen lake or pond, without knowing the thickness of the ice.

– Clear ice is safer than ice with air bubbles or snow-covered ice which is generally weaker.

– Never go on or near ice covered lakes or ponds alone.

– Call 911 immediately if you see a person or pet in trouble. Rescue crews have the necessary resources to perform safe rescues quickly. Many people fall in trying to save a person or a pet.