Community Corner

Burnsville Fire Chief Issues Ice Advisory

Burnsville Fire Chief BJ Jungmann has asked residents to take special care on the ice this winter as temperatures fluctuate up and down.

 

Word to the wise: There is no safe ice.

As of Feb. 4, three Minnesotans had already died as a result of crashing through weak ice. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, on average, about four people died on ice during the winters from 2001 to 2011, the latest statistics available. 

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In light of the circumstances, Burnsville Fire Chief BJ Jungmann has written up a few tips for residents. 

• What is Safe Ice?

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"There’s no such thing. You should never stand or drive on ice without being ready to react if it gives way." Jungmann wrote.

• What should you do if you fall through? 

"You’ll hear a warning crack, probably. Try not to gasp if you fall; it causes you to inhale water. Turn back in the direction you came from and extend your arms to disburse your weight. With a sharp tool, grab the ice and kick your feet while you pull yourself to safety. Stay low. Roll away from the hole. Find warm shelter."

• What should I do if someone else falls through? 

"Call 9-1-1. Do not go near the hole — you can’t help by falling in too. Follow the Preach, Reach, Throw, Row and Go, techniques: Preach – shout instructions for self-rescue. Reach – extend a rope, a ladder or jumper cables to the victim. If you start to slide toward the hole, let go. Throw – a flotation device and a rope and tell the victim to put on the device and wrap up in the rope. Row – find a light boat to push to the edge of the hole. Get into the boat and pull the victim over the bow. Be sure there is a rope on the back of the boat so that others can pull you to safety. Go – find more help." 


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