It was a training and awareness exercise, but for Acting OPP Sgt. Iryna Nebogatova, the shock of dropping through thin ice into Lake Couchiching took her breath away.
“The temperature of the water was extremely cold. So that’s initial shock to your body and the breathing is right away out of control.”
Nebogatova was in her police uniform when she took the plunge under controlled conditions with rescuers standing by. She was soon joined in the frigid water by Sgt. Steve Mihills, who was wearing a survival suit. He encouraged Nebogatova as she kicked her feet, pulled with her arms and eventually crawled out onto safe ice.
“You have one minute to get control of your breathing, and then you have ten minutes of meaningful movement.” said Mihills. “You gotta have a plan.”
The OPP say ice conditions across central Ontario are unpredictable and there have been several fatalities and close calls this winter.
Nebogatova says it’s an experience she won’t forget.
“It is extremely difficult to get out of the water. If you are for whatever reason on the ice this winter, ensure that you have ice picks and ensure that you know how to self rescue because you don’t have a lot of time for help to get to you.”
A milder winter has left ice formation fragile with open water still prevalent in many areas. Before venturing out onto ice, check with local authorities on ice conditions, have a plan, wear a floater suit, ice picks and be prepared to self-rescue #NoIceIsSafeIce #SledSafe ^gp pic.twitter.com/NL3Lner60f
— OPP Central Region (@OPP_CR) February 5, 2021