What to do if you fall through the ice: instructions for action

      Winter in the Zainsk district is a time for ice fishing, ice skating and walks along the snowy banks of the Zaya, Irni, Zychi rivers...

      But ice, especially during thaw periods or at the start of winter, is treacherous. Knowing self-rescue rules can save your life and the lives of those nearby. The editorial team of "Zainsk-Inform" has prepared a clear set of instructions: what to do if you find yourself in icy water.

      Main rule: don’t panic and call for help

      The first seconds after breaking through are crucial. Shout "Help!" loudly and clearly to attract the attention of people on shore. Panic makes you thrash and waste energy, and cold water quickly numbs your movements. Remember: you have roughly 10–15 minutes before severe hypothermia sets in. That’s enough time to get out if you act correctly.

      How to get out of a hole in the ice by yourself: three steps

      Spread your arms wide.

      This will help you hook onto the edge of the ice and prevent your head from going under. Don’t try to put all your weight on the ice — it will break.

      Try to get your chest onto the ice.

      If the ice holds, cautiously, without sudden movements, begin to push your body out, using your legs like when swimming. Your goal is to get as far out onto the ice as possible, distributing your body weight.

      Don’t get up immediately!

      Once out of the water, crawl or roll away from the hole along the same path you used, at least 3–5 meters. Only then can you slowly stand and move toward shore.

      If you witness an incident

      Your actions should be quick but safe.

      Call 112 immediately.

      Clearly tell the operator the location (for example, "Zay River, area of the iron bridge by the village of Svetloe Ozero").

      Don’t run to the hole!

      Crawl toward the victim while lying down, spreading your arms and legs to distribute your weight. You can place skis, a board, or a coat under you.

      Use improvised aids:

      Extend a long pole, a scarf, tied belts or a board to the victim. Pull them out while lying down, without sudden movements.

      First aid after rescue

      Remove wet clothing immediately.

      Wrap the rescued person in dry clothing.

      Use blankets, jackets. If possible, take them into a warm room or vehicle.

      Give warm (not hot!) sweet drinks.

      Under no circumstances give alcohol — it accelerates heat loss.

      Call an ambulance at 103 or 112. Hypothermia can have delayed effects even if the person feels better.

      The best protection is prevention

      Remember, ice is considered safe for one person at a thickness of at least 7 cm. But even with such ice avoid:

      - going out onto the ice alone or at night;

      - standing on areas with fast currents, near the shore, or where streams enter;

      - a gathering of people on one small patch of ice.

      Be careful, dear residents of Zainsk! Take care of yourself and your loved ones. Winter should bring only joy and safe recreation.

      Information prepared in consultation with the Civil Protection Department and rescuers of the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM).

      Author

      More news about the event:

      What to do if you fall through the ice: action instructions

      Winter in the Zainsk district is a time for ice fishing, ice skating and walks along the snowy banks of the Zaya, Irni, Zychi rivers... 11:54 08.01.2026 Zainsk News - Zainsk

      What to do if you fall through the ice: action instructions

      Winter in the Zainsk district is a time for ice fishing, ice skating and walks along the snowy banks of the Zaya, Irni, Zychi rivers... 11:48 08.01.2026 Zainsk-Inform - Zainsk

      Related regional news from neighboring regions:

      Safe fishing during the New Year holidays

      Winter fishing is a great way to spend the weekend, but remember safety on the ice! 11:30 08.01.2026 EMERCOM of Russia - Tomsk

      In the Republic of Tatarstan, results were summed up for large-scale work on the renovation of key highways. Chistopol-Inform

      The ONDiPR of the Mendeleevsky district reminds about the main causes of fires in banyas (bathhouses) and ways to avoid them. Mendeleevskie News

      The identity of the deceased is being established.

      The accident occurred at kilometer 84 of the "Cheboksary–Surskoye" road. Komsomolskaya Pravda Kazan

      A majority of Russians, 53%, believed that Cheburashka can be considered part of Russian cultural tradition. IA Tatar-Inform

      A selection of events for those who don't plan to stay home. Photo: Artem Dergunov

      Today — the Cathedral of the Most Holy Mother of God. Realnoe Vremya

      In Nurlat, in keeping with a good tradition, the honoring of long-lived jubilaries continues. Nurlat-Inform