Beware Of Frozen Waterways In Loudoun: Police

LOUUDOUN COUNTY, VA — Following a New Year's Day incident in which a group of young adults drove an SUV on frozen parts of the Potomac River near Algonkian Regional Park and the broke through the ice near the shore, Loudoun County police and fire officials are warning residents about the perils of walking, skating or yes, even driving on frozen bodies of water.

The occupants of the SUV were able to safely get out of the vehicle after it became stuck. It had to be towed from the water. Their little adventure also was illegal, according to the U.S. Park Police. Meanwhile, with temperatures stuck in the teens and 20s, area waterways indeed are freezing and seem inviting for pedestrians or ice skaters.

Listen to Loudoun County Sheriff Mike Chapman: "If you live near a waterway, we ask that you remain watchful for children attempting to venture onto the ice. It is also important for parents to speak with their children about the dangers of walking and playing on frozen ponds and rivers."

However, if someone tries it anyway and falls through the ice, Loudoun County Fire Chief W. Keith Brower has a to-do list for would-be rescuers: "A bystander attempting a rescue by entering the water or going onto the ice could become a victim themselves in a matter of seconds. If a dog or another animal falls through the ice, do not go to its rescue.

"If the ice did not support the animal it will not take your weight."

Here are some tips to stay safe when out on frozen waterways:

• Never go onto the ice alone. A friend may be able to rescue you or go for help if you fall through the ice.

• Always keep your pets on a leash. If a pet falls through the ice do not attempt to rescue your pet, call 9-1-1 or go for help.

• New ice is usually stronger than old ice. As ice ages, the bond between the crystals decays, making it weaker, even if melting has not occurred.

• Beware of ice covered with snow. Snow can insulate ice and keep it strong, but can also insulate it to keep it from freezing. Snow can also hide cracks, weak and open ice.

• Slush is a danger sign, indicating that ice is no longer freezing from the bottom and can be weak or deteriorating.

• Ice formed over flowing water (rivers or lakes containing a large number of springs) is generally 15% weaker.

• Ice seldom freezes or thaws at a uniform rate. It can be one foot thick in one spot and be only a few inches thick 10 feet away.

• Reach-Throw-Go. If a companion falls through the ice and you are unable to reach that person from shore, throw them something (rope, jumper cables, tree branch, etc.). If this does not work, go for help or call 9-1-1, before you also become a victim. Get medical assistance for the victim immediately.

• If you fall in, try not to panic. Turn toward the direction from which you came. Place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface, working forward by kicking your feet. Once out, remain lying on the ice (do not stand) and roll away from the hole. Crawl back to your tracks, keeping your weight distributed until you return to solid ice.

Image via Pixabay