WASATCH COUNTY, Utah, Dec. 29, 2018 (Gephardt Daily) — “Be careful out there.” That’s the message Wasatch County Search and Rescue is sending out after three snowmobilers went through the ice at Strawberry Reservoir.
The accident happened Saturday, when a man on a snowmobile and a husband and wife following on another one went out to ice fish at the reservoir, a Facebook post from Wasatch County SAR says.
The three came to an area where the ice wasn’t thick enough to support them, and they all ended up in the water.
“After going into the lake — sleds and all, they were able to self rescue and get a call out for help,” the post says. “All parties were treated by Wasatch EMS. However, the snowmobiles were not so lucky.”
Search and Rescue is cautioning everyone that the ice layers on the lake are not uniform because of springs that create weak spots. Anyone heading out there is advised to stop at the Strawberry marina store and get a map of the area.
The Department of Natural Resources also has some helpful advice if you’re planning to go ice fishing at Strawberry Reservoir:
Ice Safety Tips
- Be aware of the ice conditions before venturing onto the ice. These conditions can vary drastically within a few feet and throughout the day. Continually check ice thickness. This is especially important when daily highs and lows are above freezing.
- Clear ice is capable of holding more weight than cloudy ice. There should be a minimum of four inches of good clear ice before walking out onto the lake, and at least six or more inches before taking a snowmobile or ATV on the ice. Late in the season (March-April) is particularly dangerous as the ice deteriorates.
- We advise drilling test holes into the ice as you venture onto the ice.
- Fish with a partner. If you go through the ice it is very difficult to get yourself out of the water without help.
- Avoid having large groups of people and equipment in a small area. Spread the weight out.
- Never venture out onto partially ice-covered water. Large sheets of ice can break away leaving you stranded.
- Avoid the mouths of streams and underwater springs that can create dangerous ice conditions.
- Carry some safety equipment such as ice awls (picks) for pulling yourself out of the water, as well as rope or rescue throw bag to pull others out. Know how to use your equipment.
- Life jackets save lives. It is a good idea to wear a life vest under or over your clothing.
- Dress warm. It can be extremely cold, particularly when the wind blows.
- Be careful if you attempt to rescue a person. Use a rope or a long pole only to attempt to rescue.
- DO NOT go in the water or near the victim. Many would-be rescuers become victims as well when getting too close.
- Always let a friend or family member know where you will be and when they should expect to hear from you.
