News Photo by Josh Jambor Alpena Township firefighters are seen conducting their annual ice safety training on Tuesday at the Alpena County Fairgrounds.

ALPENA – Ice fishing and winter recreation are well underway in Northeast Michigan. To prepare for any winter water or ice rescues, the Alpena Township Fire Department conducted its annual training exercises on Tuesday night, at the Alpena County fairgrounds.

Alpena Township Fire Chief Tim Baker told The News what he wants the public to keep in mind before heading out on the ice.

“The biggest thing is, if you plan to be on the ice, make sure you have a personal flotation device and that you share your plans with someone not with you, if you are alone,” Baker explained. “Inform someone of your location as accurately as possible, and the times that you will be on the ice.”

Alpena Township paid, on-call firefighter, Kevin Ginter, recommends doing some homework before venturing out onto the ice.

“See if you can obtain information from local sources (National Weather Service, Michigan Department of Natural Resources) about recent ice conditions or areas that might be of special concern.”

Ginter also added the importance of being aware of your surroundings or elements of the environment that you cannot see.

“Some lakes have underground springs. These springs create instability and can reduce ice thickness in those areas,” Ginter said. “Seek out local sources to find out all the necessary information regarding the body of water before getting on the ice.”

If you plan on being on the ice regularly, Ginter recommends investing in a dry suit.

“These suits significantly reduce exposure to the effects of cold water and hypothermia,” he said.

Baker emphasized not venturing out on the ice without a phone, even if it’s just for emergencies.

“Bring a cell phone that can be used in an emergency situation to get first responders to your area as quickly as possible,” he said.

Ginter and Baker both stressed the importance of checking ice thickness in different areas.

“Be sure you check ice thickness in different areas. Shoreline ice may be different than ice in other areas,” Baker said.

“Be sure the ice thickness is appropriate for you and whatever equipment/vehicles you have with you, snowmobiles, four-wheelers, and pickup trucks require significantly more ice depth,” Ginter added.

Ginter said that the effects of cold water exposure can hinder a person’s use of their body.

“Cold water, especially winter-water temperatures, can significantly, and very quickly, reduce dexterity and muscle strength,” Ginter explained. “If able, get out of the water as quickly as possible and replace wet clothes with dry clothes.”

If you witness someone fall in, Baker said to call for help.

“Immediately call 9-1-1 and provide an accurate description of the location and any information that can be obtained (can you see the person, are they struggling, are they going below the ice/water),” Baker explained. “The dispatcher will ask several questions that might include, ‘Are you able to communicate with them?’ Try to keep them calm and let them know help has been called. The important thing is that untrained persons do not attempt to make a rescue of a person or animal.”

“In my career, I have seen good Samaritans become victims and sustain serious injury or die, as a result of trying to help,” Baker added.

Josh Jambor can be reached at jjambor@thealpenanews.com.