The campaign to prevent cases of collapse under the thin ice of water bodies

The General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations of the MAI launched on January 16, 2026, the Campaign to prevent incidents of collapse under the thin ice of water basins, during the cold period of the year.
The purpose of the activity is to increase the level of information and awareness of the population regarding the specific risks of the cold season, as well as to promote the correct way of reaction in emergency situations.
Firefighters and rescuers carry out actions to inform and prevent cases of collapse under the thin ice of water bodies in all districts of the country, alerting the population to the dangers specific to the cold season, jointly with the representatives of the water rescue stations, the General Inspectorate of the Police and the General Inspectorate of the Carabinieri.
in order to minimize the risk of water incidents during the cold period of the year, IGSU employees appealed to citizens and angler fishing enthusiasts to follow the safety rules and avoid being on the thin ice of water bodies, which can give way at any time, especially in conditions of fluctuating temperatures.
According to rescuers, extra attention should be paid to minors, who venture out onto the ice bridge. Adults are asked to supervise children and do not allow them to find or play near or on the surface of frozen bodies of water.
The campaign to prevent cases of falling under thin ice during the cold period of the year is carried out at the national level, and citizens are urged to be responsible and follow the following prevention rules:
Prevention measures and rules for adults and children
🔹 Avoid moving on the ice of water pools, regardless of its apparent thickness;
🔹 Do not allow children to play on frozen lakes, rivers or ponds;
🔹 Always supervise children near water;
🔹 Do not consume alcohol before entering cold water or during participation in religious rituals;
🔹 Participation in the immersion ritual of the "Baptism of the Lord" must be carried out only in authorized places and under the supervision of rescuers;
🔹 Follow the instructions of the rescuers and the authorities;
🔹 In case of emergency, immediately call the 112 Service.
At the same time, the IGSU warns about the risks of angling, and fishermen are asked to avoid being on the thin layer of ice, especially during periods of fluctuating temperatures.
Safety rules for fishermen in the cold period of the year
🔹 Avoid fishing on thin ice or in areas with currents, underwater springs or abundant vegetation;
🔹 Do not enter the ice if its thickness is less than 10 cm;
🔹 Inform relatives or close people about the place and estimated duration of fishing;
🔹 Do not fish alone and keep distance between people to avoid overloading the ice;
🔹 Wear a life jacket or appropriate protective equipment;
🔹 Have self-rescue items available (rope, knife, ice picks);
🔹 Avoid drinking alcohol before and during fishing;
🔹 Be aware of weather changes and leave the area immediately if cracks or noises appear in the ice.
The General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations reminds that safety is a priority, and following simple prevention rules can save lives.