Stay off the ice:

The Countryside Fire Protection District urges the public to stay off ice as its strength varies with age, thickness, temperature and snow cover, and can't be judged by appearance. The depth of water under the ice, size of the water body, water chemistry and currents, the distribution of the load on the ice and local climatic conditions also are factors, fire officials said. If someone falls through ice, call 911 and resist the urge to run to the edge of the hole. Shout to the victim to encourage them to hold on to the edge, stay calm and reassure them help is on the way. If you can safely reach the victim from shore, extend an object such as a long branch, ladder or jumper cables. Toss one end of a rope or extension cord with a loop to the victim. Visit www.countrysidefire.com.