There are numerous reasons to have respect for bodies of water.
Here we are just focused on typical hazards connected to backpacking. Such hazards would include water crossing and
walking across ice.
Here is a
good video about safe water crossing from Backpacker Magazine -- These kids don't look like backcountry die-hards. I feel that demonstrates and reinforces my plea to you that
anybody can enjoy nature. Take your time. Replace your hiking footwear with camp
shoes or sandals. Face upstream and sidestep. Use trek poles or a wooden staff. Turn back if it gets knee-deep.
Try to avoid doing this alone.
Crossing an ice covered body of water is unpredictable. Just because the ice is holding you now; that
doesn't mean that your next step will be safe. Due to the unpredictability, I can't give you a fool-proof plan
to cross ice. I can say: Ice that is four inches thick (or more) is safe to walk on.
If you must cross, spread your weight out by using trek poles, rolling or crawling.
Spreading out is better than walking upright. Assume that you will fall through. Put on your camp shoes. Whatever clothing
has no backup, take it off and seal it in something waterproof. Be prepared to change into dry clothes and quickly build
a fire. Attach a strong lanyard to your pack and drag it behind you. If you can toss your pack on the far shore; do
so.
Watch this video by Dr. Cold. The information can save your life if you do break through.
