BENTON (WSIL)--Every year, around 8,000 people die in ice related events.
When it comes to saving people who get caught under the ice, the Benton fire department is equipped to save those who are swept by the freezing water with their Surface Ice Rescue Team.
"As with everything else in our business, we are preparing for the worst, especially during these winter months, where people may in our area start to believe that ice related activities are ok," said Benton Fire Chief Shane Cockrum.
Cold water causes the body to go into shock, which makes the chances of drowning suddenly very high.
Cockrum said when it comes to ice related the dangers, the worst spots to be are near roadways, where salt from the roads runs into lakes and streams.
"So although it does appear that the ice is strong and clear, in reality what that salt has done is deplete that ice. It is probably the least safe near the shoreline, where it is also shallow water," said Cockrum.
If you find yourself near out near frozen water, you should never go alone, always have rope with you and call 9-1-1 immediately.
"A lot of times, seconds count in those situations. Having us on scene in the difference of a minute may be all the difference that you need," said Cockrum.
Fire Chief Cockrum said if you do find yourself in the water, stay calm to keep your body temperature up and try to exit the ice in the same way you went in.
