Two desperate ice fishing enthusiasts decided to check the thickness of the ice near Aluksne; one could not be saved 0 19

Winter is in full swing, and its enthusiasts have been rushing to take advantage of everything the weather offers for several days. Ice fishermen are no exception. The statistics of drownings this year opened at Lake Aluksne, where on Sunday morning, two people fell through the ice 70 meters from the shore.

Rescuers managed to save one of them immediately, but the second fisherman was found dead at a depth of five meters.

A representative of the Aluksne County Council, Maris Lietuvietis, stated that this is not the first and, unfortunately, not the last case of people dying in the largest water body of the region:

"The ice on the water bodies is currently uneven. Frost has been replaced by snow, and this is the most dangerous period — in one place, the ice thickness may be about 10 centimeters, while just a couple of steps further under the snow, it is only two centimeters. Every year, accidents happen — people fall through the ice. Last year, near our office, a person on a bicycle fell through the ice, and rescuers had to be called. Inspectors inspect the water bodies as much as possible and inform the public, but this information cannot be complete, as the situation can change very quickly."

After the tragic fishing incident, council representatives on the municipality's website and social media urged residents not to go out on the ice. However, the municipality does not intend to impose a complete ban, and there are several reasons for this.

"Even if a ban were introduced, the question arises as to what tools the municipal police could realistically use to enforce it and prevent people from going onto the ice. Conditions even in one water body can vary greatly, and it is impossible to check every corner of the lake and confidently say that the ice is safe. Therefore, the main focus should be on preventive work rather than waiting for an accident to happen," the municipality noted.

At the same time, in several municipalities, including Riga, an order has been issued to prohibit being on water bodies to reduce the risk of incidents. Violation of this order is subject to administrative proceedings and a fine of up to 100 euros.

"Water bodies are inspected daily based on priority. First of all — places where ice has formed and where children and minors may enter. During preventive work, ice monitoring is also conducted — its thickness is measured, and the situation is assessed to prepare a draft decision on where it is safe to be on the ice," explained Janis Skrims, a representative of the Riga Municipal Police Water Safety Department.

To lift the ban on being on water bodies in Riga, stable frosts must be awaited, when the ice thickness reaches at least 10 centimeters. Only then can the capital's ice fishing enthusiasts return to their hobby. However, even with permission, the State Fire and Rescue Service urges considering several recommendations to ensure safety from accidents.

"You should not go out on the ice alone — it is safer to be with a friend who can help if necessary. If you fall through, remember that the place you came from is likely more stable. A friend can throw you a piece of clothing, a stick, or another makeshift item to help you get back onto the ice. Ice spikes can also help. It is important to stay calm, not panic, get rid of bags or clothing that pull you underwater, and try to get back onto the ice," explained Agris Asups, commander of the 1st part of the Riga Fire and Rescue Service.

Although firefighters more often receive calls about ice fishermen who have fallen through, there are also cases where help is needed for children and teenagers. It is the responsibility of adults to explain safety rules near water bodies to children.