‘PARTNERING WITH THE NDPA’
As the winter season blankets our many landscapes with snow and ice, it’s crucial to revisit the topic of water safety. This is particularly important around frozen lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water. While the serene beauty of a winter setting can be charming, it masks potential dangers, making it essential to practice caution and preparedness.
Understanding Ice Safety
First, understanding ice safety is paramount. Ice thickness can be deceptive, especially because it does not freeze at the same time, thickness, or temperature. The Department of Natural Resources recommends checking the thickness of ice in multiple locations and the minimum of 4” of clear ice is safe for activities on foot. They also share different thicknesses for different activities. However, these are merely guidelines, and remember, ice is never 100% safe.
Outdoor enthusiasts should also be aware of the factors that affect ice strength, including fluctuations in air temperature, snow cover that insulates ice and can keep it from freezing thoroughly, and under-the-surface currents, which can weaken the ice.
Life Jackets: A Must Wear Near Water
A vital winter water safety tip involves wearing U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets. You should be wearing an appropriate life jacket any time you are around bodies of water — even if you don’t plan to go in the water. Slips and accidental falls into frigid water can happen quickly, and a life jacket can be a lifesaver, providing buoyancy and insulation.
In water, hypothermia can set in rapidly, making a quick rescue essential. Wearing a properly fitted life jacket can help keep an individual afloat and visible, increasing the chances for rescue. It’s a simple precaution that can make a significant difference in survival, particularly in a remote area.
5 Layers of Protection
Wearing a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket is one of NDPA’s 5 layers of protection. The other layers of protection are barriers and alarms, supervision, water competency, and emergency preparation. Following the layers of protection will help keep you safer around bodies of water. Sharing this information with your clients will show them that you take safety seriously and that water safety is important all year round. This is important even around any water features your clients may have in and around their homes.
Water competency is one of the layers of protection, and you can point out that swimming lessons aren’t just for the summer time. You can read more about this in a previous NDPA blog and share it with your clients.
Community Awareness and Responsibility
The importance of community awareness of water safety cannot be overstressed. Water safety is a shared responsibility. As pool service professionals, you are part of the community and you can help spread awareness and resources. Along with local authorities and community organizations, you can share this important information using clear signage about dangers of thin ice and the provision of emergency equipment near public bodies of water.
Moreover, everyone should share knowledge about water safety. Talk to family, friends, and community members, especially children, about the risks associated with water during winter.
Winter brings a unique set of challenges regarding water safety. By understanding ice safety, wearing an appropriate U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket near water, and continuing to practice the 5 layers of protection, you can help your community enjoy the beauty of the season without compromising safety. Let’s make this winter a safer one by being prepared, informed, and vigilant.
