The Coast Guard of the Gulf of Finland has issued a serious warning regarding the dangers of moving close to shipping lanes, highlighting incidents where individuals have been seen traversing these areas. This warning comes after the observation was made that, even with the end of passenger ferry traffic in the archipelago, commercial vessels are still actively navigating these routes to ports. Local authorities stress that not all vessels using these waterways are visible on commercial mobile apps, making awareness of their presence crucial for safety.

As the ice cover in the Gulf has thickened due to recent severe cold, the Coast Guard underscores that conditions can still be perilous, particularly in areas influenced by currents where the ice may be weaker. A notable incident in Helsinki's Lehtisaari saw an individual fall through the ice under a bridge, but fortunately, they were rescued. It serves as a stark reminder that ice conditions can vary significantly and can pose life-threatening risks.

The Coast Guard advises that those who venture onto the ice should do so while staying close to the shore and ensuring that they are equipped with the proper safety gear. Furthermore, they emphasize that the ice cover in open water is not uniform; areas of drifting ice can create unpredictable and dangerous situations for those traversing the surface. Taking these warnings seriously is essential for public safety during the winter months.