As we enter our winter months, lakes, ponds, streams and rivers throughout the Flathead Valley freeze over.

The temperature may continue to fluctuate above and below freezing, making ice conditions very uncertain.

The strength and thickness of ice should be known before any activity takes place.

Please follow the following safety procedures:

-Never go onto the ice alone.

A friend may be able to rescue you, call 9-1-1 or go for help if you fall through the ice.

-Always keep your pets on a leash.

If a pet falls through the ice, do not attempt to rescue your pet. Go for help.

-Self rescue. If you fall in, try not to panic.

Turn toward the direction from which you came.

Place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface, working forward by kicking your feet.

Once out, remain lying on the ice (do not stand) and roll away from the hole.

Crawl back to your tracks, keeping your weight distributed until you return to solid ice.

-Reach-Throw-Go.

If a companion falls through the ice and you are unable to reach that person from shore, throw them something (rope, jumper cables, tree branch, etc.).

If this does not work, go for help or call 9-1-1 before you become a victim.

By following the safety procedures, you can be safe and enjoy the many winter activities offered by the great outdoors.

For the month of December, we responded to ten incidents: chimney or flue fire (1), land medical helicopter (3), medical assist (1), vehicle accident with injuries (1), motor vehicle accident with no injuries (2), power line down (1) and gas leak (1).

For the year of 2009, we responded to 201 incidents.

Happy New Year from the Bigfork Fire Department.

Loeffler is the chief of the Bigfork Volunteer Fire Department.