People Seen Walking on Dangerous Shelf Ice at Ohio Street Beach, Prompting Safety Warnings
Several People Seen Walking on Lake Michigan’s Shelf Ice at Ohio Street Beach
Several people were seen walking on the floating shelf ice on Lake Michigan at Ohio Street Beach early Sunday.
What We Know:
Several marine distress calls were made over the weekend.
The Chicago Fire Department issued a reminder that no shelf ice is safe.
Though it may appear tempting for a photo opportunity, it’s important to avoid walking on it as you can easily fall through.
What They’re Saying:
“The best advice is just to stay off of it. It becomes contagious where people want to go out and explore and generally, when people see a hill or a mound, they want to climb to the top of it and it’s these peaks of these hills or mounds that are going to be the most fragile,” said Dave Benjamin, with the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project.
If you plunge into the water below the ice, you may only be able to survive for a few minutes and the involuntary gasp reflex when hitting the cold water can prompt you to inhale water into your lungs, Benjamin said.
The Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project has been monitoring shoreline cameras that are set up around Lake Michigan. They’ve also seen scores of people walking out onto the ice.
Safety Concerns:
Walking on shelf ice is extremely dangerous and can be fatal. The ice is fragile and can break beneath your feet at any moment, sending you tumbling into the freezing water.
The cold water can cause hypothermia, which can set in within minutes. The Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project urges people to stay away from the ice and to not take unnecessary risks.
Conclusion:
The safety of those who venture onto the ice is of the utmost importance. It is crucial to heed the warnings and avoid walking on the shelf ice. The consequences of falling through the ice can be devastating, and it is simply not worth the risk.
FAQs:
Q: Is it safe to walk on shelf ice?
A: No, it is not safe to walk on shelf ice. The ice is fragile and can break beneath your feet at any moment, sending you tumbling into the freezing water.
Q: What should I do if I see someone walking on shelf ice?
A: If you see someone walking on shelf ice, you should immediately call 911 and report the location. Do not attempt to intervene or try to rescue the person yourself.
Q: How can I stay safe near the water?
A: To stay safe near the water, always be aware of your surroundings and keep a safe distance from the water’s edge. Never venture onto ice that is unclear or appears weak. Always prioritize your safety and the safety of those around you.
