Winter on frozen water can be beautiful, but it is risky. Ice-covered surfaces are only safe where there are designated crossing points. Yet fans of winter fishing and snowy adventures still venture onto reservoirs and channels, chasing thrills beyond the obvious paths.
Public safety officials emphasize learning essential safety rules and knowing what to do if a vehicle ends up sinking through the ice.
In an emergency, staying calm is the most powerful ally. A car can stay afloat for a few minutes, providing a window to escape safely.
If you are driving across ice and hear a distinct creak, exit the vehicle immediately. If the car begins to submerge, do not panic. Focus on surfacing carefully and methodically.
When possible, open the side windows and exit through them. Maintain a firm grip on the vehicle’s handlebars to avoid being swept away by sudden currents.
If you enter the water with your head, look toward a bright point and follow the direction of rising air bubbles to locate an open area of water, sometimes called a polynya. This can guide you toward safer space to breathe and move.
Once you have escaped a sinking vehicle, retrace the path you followed to reach the ice. The ice around the point of escape remains one of the strongest sections, and staying close to that trail can reduce the risk of falling through again.
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Note: This article is a practical guide for safety and engagement with automotive shows and public testing events. The information reflects general safety recommendations and promotional activities available to readers today.