Mid-Missouri officials warn of frozen lake dangers
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
As mid-Missouri is expecting to face a cold snap on Sunday, officials are bringing awareness to the risks of frozen lakes, with Columbia Parks and Recreation temporarily closing Lakeside Dog Park at Twin Lakes Recreation area to safeguard dogs from falling through the ice.
According to the Missouri Department of Public Safety, there is no way to judge the strength and safety of ice with the naked eye, as factors like sunlight and fluctuating temperatures can affect ice thickness.
Most white ice and river ice tend to be thinner, and should not be walked on.
When near frozen bodies of water, parents and guardians should keep an eye on their kids and never leave a child unattended. All pets should be leashed and within viewing distance.
In case of emergency, it's not recommended to go in to help a victim who has fallen through the ice, if possible, try to get the victim something to hold onto to stay afloat until help arrives.
Victims in the water should try to kick their feet to get out of the water and onto the ice. From there, it's best to crawl to shore to prevent any further breaks and treat themselves for hypothermia.
