Danger to life on Lake Eixendorf: Warning of unsafe ice surfaces!

Danger to life on Lake Eixendorf: Warning of unsafe ice surfaces!

The winter cold not only brings with it a happy atmosphere, but also potential dangers. The Weiden Water Management Office is currently warning people not to enter the ice surfaces at Lake Eixendorf and the Liebenstein reservoir. Due to the persistent cold temperatures, a layer of ice has formed, but it is not nearly as safe as it looks. A communication from the district office emphasizes that hollow spots can arise under the ice cover that cannot be seen from the outside and can therefore pose a threat to life. Careless walkers or ice skaters run the serious risk of falling into the cold water, which could have fatal consequences, warns oberpfalzecho.de.

Especially at this time, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with frozen waters. As mittelbayerische.de reports, the ice surfaces on dammed waters such as Lake Eixendorf are life-threatening. The water management office urges caution: When the water level drops, cavities can form under the ice cover that are not visible and can make the ice brittle.

Risky decisions on ice surfaces

Ice surfaces must be at least 15 centimeters thick to be safe to walk on. But that is often easier said than done. The thickness of the ice can be influenced by many factors such as currents, vegetation and temperature changes. Rivers and bank areas where the ice is often thinner are particularly risky, warns br.de. Parents should inform their children about these dangers, because playing on the ice can quickly have dramatic consequences.

The water rescue team encourages anyone entering winter waters to be extremely careful. If you hear any noises such as cracking or crackling, you should leave the ice surface immediately. In the event of a plunge into cold water, the body's reactions are devastating: heart palpitations and breathing become shallow, which can drastically reduce the chances of survival.

Shared responsibility for security

Communities are responsible for the safety of ice surfaces and should do everything in their power to minimize life-threatening risks. Approvals for ice surfaces are usually only issued after a long period of cold and are communicated through signs and press releases. Some cities have already implemented stricter rules that prohibit entering natural ice surfaces without express permission.

So take advantage of the wintry backdrop, but stay alert and avoid entering ice areas that are not clearly marked as safe. Your safety is our top priority!