Violating the laws of nature brings consequences.
With daily temperatures fluctuating from the teens to the high-50s, the Missouri Highway Patrol is warning people to keep off the ice.
Adopt the attitude that no ice is absolutely safe, advised Col. Ron Replogle, patrol superintendent.
Consider these scientific findings:
• Cold shock occurs when the body suddenly is immersed in cold water. When the torso is submerged, blood vessels constrict to conserve core body heat. This response can cause a sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure - in some cases resulting in cardiac arrest.
• Hypothermia causes the body to lose heat 25 times faster in water than in the air. Lifejacket use becomes even more important in cold water because hypothermia can rob the body of the ability to perform the most basic tasks and lead to drowning.
• If an unexpected plunge into cold water occurs, it is vital to get out of the water and into dry clothes as soon as possible. If dry clothes are not an option, leave the wet ones on. Even wet clothes will offer some insulation and trap body heat.
The patrol urges: parents to be certain youngsters never play on ponds or lakes without adult supervision; fisherman to partner with a fellow angler and be sure someone knows where they are; and would-be rescuers to call 9-1-1.
Local fire departments have the quickest response time, the proper equipment and training for ice emergencies. Would-be rescuers are advised not to venture onto the ice, but to extend a ladder, pole or rope to the victim.
The patrol also offers advice for people who fall through the ice. First, try not to panic. "Face the direction you came from and spread your arms out on the unbroken ice," the patrol said. "Kick your feet and try to pull yourself onto the ice. Once out of the water, do not attempt to stand. Lying on the ice keeps your weight distributed. Roll away from the hole then crawl across the ice back to solid land."
This is the time of year when the only safe place to skate is the local ice arena.
Anyplace outdoors may be treacherous. And, as the laws of nature remind us, deadly.