Fishermen, skiers, pedestrians and children are at risk
Regina Gayazova, Head of the Department of Human Safety at Water Facilities of the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation for the Republic of Tatarstan, spoke about the situation at water bodies during the melting of ice, during a briefing for media representatives held today at the "Tatar-Inform" NA.
Regina Gayazova reported that the upper reaches of the rivers have already been freed from the ice shell. Ice breaking on small rivers will begin in early April. In large bodies of water, the thickness of the ice cover varies from 20 to 60 cm, depending on the proximity to the riverbed. Places with fast currents are already dangerous for crossings. This applies not only to fishermen, but also to hikers and skiers. Therefore, I appeal to fishermen with a recommendation to end the ice fishing season and, moreover, using a snowmobile.
Taking into account the increased risks, Emergency Situations Ministry rescuers have organized round-the-clock duty at 10 temporary rescue posts in places where people go out on the ice. The work of the Ministry of Emergency Situations staff consists in timely response to accidents on water bodies and is focused on preventive work and rescue of people in places of active fishing.
In conclusion, I would like to draw parents' special attention to the safety of their children. School holidays are starting. Dear adults, be vigilant, do not leave your children unattended, do not let them go to reservoirs unaccompanied by adults.
Children's games on ice - walking on ice floes, pushing ice floes away from the shore, even walking near steep shores have led to tragedies more than once. Take care of yourself and your loved ones! – Regina Gayazova concluded her report.