Thin ice, think twice

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Yash Rojas
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  As rising temperatures begin to melt the ice, safety remains a top priority and base leadership has requested Airmen and their families stay off lakes on Eielson Air Force Base.

Many factors affect the thickness of ice on lakes including wind, water flow, and snow; making it difficult for the average person to judge how safe it is to venture onto thinning ice.

Base families must follow base-wide safety policies, and the 354th Civil Engineer Squadron natural resources recommends Icemen always err on the side of caution and use common sense when engaging in recreation near frozen bodies of water. By following base guidance people can keep themselves and others out of harm's way.

According to Tom Slater, 354th Civil Engineer Squadron natural resources planner, ice remains thickest at the lake's center during the spring as the water melts from the shore and moves toward the center.

"People who aren't used to ice [can sometimes make risky assumptions]. For example, when you see someone drive a vehicle on a frozen lake or pond, don't assume that it's safe ice," said Ron Gunderson, 354 CES natural resources chief of natural and cultural resources. "The ice may not be thick enough. [As a word of advice], there's no such thing as safe ice and if you keep that in mind you're sure to be more careful."

Furthermore, when enjoying Alaska's great outdoors, Airmen and families should avoid recreation near ice on flowing bodies of water like rivers which tend to present a greater risk. Ice is 15 percent weaker and depending on the strength of the current, ice thickness can be drastically different within a short distance.

One notable trouble spot on base includes the southwest corner of Moose Lake due to thinner ice as result of a potential underwater spring. Recreational activities are not recommended at this location.

Alaska offers more outdoor activities in the spring for the base populace to enjoy. Leadership encourages venturing outdoors but ultimately everyone can help prevent mishaps by adhering to the installations recommendations and safety guidance.