Springtime is just around the corner, and that means the snow and ice are beginning to melt. Doctor Jamil Rizqualla of the Ingham Regional Medical Center's Emergency Room, says it's common to see people tumbling into lakes and ponds this time of year.
"People are falling through the ice because they think it's a little safer than it actually is. Adults we see when they're out ice fishing and snowmobiling. And children are often unsupervised and playing on unsafe ice."
The slips can often lead to hypothermia, a dangerous condition which lowers the body's core temperature.
"You can certainly suffer from muscle damage and see a change in mental status. You can suffer abnormal cardiac function which can lead to death.
Dr. Rizqalla says the best thing to do is avoid the water until you know it’s completely safe. But if you do accidentally fall into an icy lake, remain calm and try to get out as soon as possible. And make sure you remove wet clothing and find a warm environment.