The Kent Fire Department is warning of the dangers of retention ponds, lakes and other standing water, especially during the winter months.

Due to the continued freezing weather many of these bodies of water now have a layer of ice on the surface that appears safe to for walking. The fire department stated in a release it is important that people understand even if the ice appears thick enough to stand on, or that it supports a person’s weight near the edges, moving on the ice can and most likely will cause it to break, sending the person into the frigid water. Keep all children and pets off ice and warn others to do the same. If someone falls into the water, call 911 immediately.

Hypothermia is the potentially life threatening lowering of body temperature due to exposure to the cold. As little as a four degree drop in core body temperature can result in hypothermia. Anyone who falls into water, whether ice is on the surface or not, can suffer from hypothermia. People simply out in cold weather for an extended period of time can also develop it.

The signs and symptoms of hypothermia include:

• loss of sensation in extremities such as fingers, toes, ears, and nose;

• shivering or shivering stops;

• disorientation, drowsiness and apathy;

• slurred speech and

• loss of coordination.

Treatments for hypothermia include:

• calling 911 immediately;

• moving indoors and out of the cold;

• removing any cold or wet clothing;

• covering with a blanket;

• applying warm, not hot, compresses to the neck, chest wall and groin areas and

• keep the patient warm and calm until help arrives.

Do not:

• use hot water or submerge the person in hot water and

• give alcoholic drinks to the patient.