The Finnish Coast Guard warns about the dangers of moving on sea ice near shipping lanes in the Gulf of Finland as an increase in people on the ice has been observed despite ongoing commercial maritime activity.
The Gulf of Finland Coast Guard has issued a stern warning regarding the dangers associated with moving on sea ice near shipping lanes. Recent freezing of the Gulf has led to an influx of individuals navigating the ice in the archipelago, raising safety concerns due to the proximity to active shipping routes. Despite the perceived quietness of these lanes, the Coast Guard emphasizes that commercial maritime traffic continues unabated, posing a significant danger to those on the ice.
During the past week, the Coast Guard has observed numerous people near shipping lanes, with some even venturing directly across them. This behavior is particularly alarming given that not all vessels operating in these areas are visible on commercial tracking applications, potentially leading to dire situations. The Coast Guard has reiterated that while recreational boat traffic in the archipelago may have ceased, the presence of commercial vessels remains a pressing risk for ice walkers.
To enhance safety, the Coast Guard recommends that individuals move along the ice parallel to the coastline and always be equipped with appropriate safety gear while engaged in winter recreational activities. The call to action aims to prevent accidents and ensure public awareness regarding the substantial risks associated with ice activities amid ongoing maritime operations in the Gulf of Finland.
