U.S. Coast Guard addressing ice safety

MARQUETTE — Falling through the ice during the winter doesn’t happen often but it’s not uncommon in Michigan. That is why the U.S. Coast Guard is always trying to help prevent these situations with reminding the public of safety tips.

When planning to go out on the ice it is best to always check the weather conditions and temperatures before going out. Warmer temperatures can lead to ice thawing and can break which will leave an individual in a dangerous situation.

The Coast Guard also advises anyone who plans to go out on to the ice to leave a float plan and to also bring a device that would allow you to call for help. One very important rule to know is the 1-10-1 rule.

“So you got one minute to catch your breath at the initial response,” explained Petty Officer 2nd Class Terry Bailey, USCG Marquette. “You then have 10 minutes of meaningful movement. That includes the dexterity of your fingers, toes and any of your outer extremities. Then you have one minute typically until you are unconscious from hypothermia.”

The Coast Guard also trains routinely in every possible situation involving ice rescue on bodies of water

“We train as much as we can throughout the day and week,” said Bailey. “We train in the morning, afternoon and the nighttime. So we need to make sure that we are always prepared for any case scenario no matter the time of day. We always make sure our crews are 100% proficient at what they do.”

The U.S. Coast Guard in Marquette trains in every aspect for ice rescue whether that involves different ice, the stability of the ice, weather conditions, and among other factors.