Friday, January 30, 2009

The days of summer?


When does summer get here? Didn't we swim across here last time?

Friday, January 9, 2009

Ice Safety - Save yourself!

Make a set of ice rescue claws

Instructions for Making Ice Claws

1. Get two 4" pieces of wooden doweling the size of a broom handle or a little larger. Whatever material you select, it should float in case you drop the claws while struggling.
2. Drive a stout nail into one end of each dowel. This should be a hardened 16 penny or larger concrete nail.
3. Use a file to sharpen the nail heads to a point.
4. Drill a hole into the dowels (in the end opposite the nail) and tie a length of strong cord through the hole so a pick is on each end "jump-rope" fashion. You may also drill a hole in the ends alongside the nails so the nail on the other pick can nest in the hole, keeping both points covered. Keep the picks in your pocket for quick emergency access if you or a companion do break through.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Ice safety tips

***Many ice drownings involve children. When your child is near the ice, you should be near your child.
***Avoid alcoholic beverages when you're on the ice. They can make you feel colder and slow down your reaction time in case of an ice emergency.
***Carry two large nails to use as ice picks to pull yourself out if you fall through the ice.
***Never drive on the ice at night.
***Avoid pressure ridges, and areas with current if you do choose to drive on the ice.
***Drive with your windows down and doors partially open to avoid becoming trapped if your car breaks through.