The chief of the State Fire and Rescue Service of Latvia, Mārtiņš Baltmanis, raised significant concerns regarding the dangers of being on ice, due to recent warm weather melting thinner layers of ice. In a Monday morning interview on Latvijas Televīzijas program "Rīta Panorāma," he noted that fire service teams have had to rescue numerous people in precarious situations, including a three-year-old child. This pattern of rescues highlights the urgent need for public awareness about the dangerous conditions.

Baltmanis stressed that currently, conditions on ice are particularly treacherous, as the rising temperatures contribute to the instability of ice covering water bodies. He stated that a total of ten people had been rescued recently, among whom were even small children. His warnings come at a crucial time, coinciding with the school holidays, a period when families and children often engage in outdoor recreation on ice, making it vital for residents to remain vigilant and cautious.

In light of these incidents, the State Fire and Rescue Service is advocating for increased caution, not just on ice but also around water bodies in general. Baltmanis urged citizens to be particularly mindful of their surroundings, emphasizing that safety should be the top priority during this holiday season, when many may underestimate the risks involved with ice activities. The overall message is clear: while engaging with nature can be enjoyable, it is essential to prioritize safety above all else to prevent accidents and emergencies.