Latvia: Ice Fishing Ban & Warnings as 3 Die in Ice Accidents

Authorities in Latvia are warning residents about the dangers of walking on frozen bodies of water, as several municipalities have reported people ignoring restrictions and venturing onto unstable ice. The warnings come as the country has already seen three fatalities and ten rescues related to ice-related accidents this season.

The municipalities of Rēzeknes and Ludzas are the only areas in the Latgale region to have officially banned access to ice on public waterways, but officials across the region are urging caution. Despite the prohibitions and advisories, people continue to risk walking on the ice, according to reports.

Ludza’s municipal police began installing warning signs mid-week regarding the dangers of the ice. A municipal order is now in effect prohibiting anyone from being on the ice of public waterways throughout the Ludza district. “You can divide [those on the ice] into two groups,” explained Jurijs Kuzņecovs, chief of the Ludza municipal police. “One group is children and tourists. The other group is anglers who deliberately go on the ice. They assess their strength, abilities, and the quality of the ice differently. We will also carry out preventive measures – patrolling. And we will also receive information, respond to information. If necessary, we will cooperate with the State Fire and Rescue Service.”

Those who violate the ban could face a warning or a fine of up to 100 euros. A similar ban has been in place in Rēzeknes district for the past week.

Vija Netle-Galeja, chief of the Rēzeknes municipal police, noted that the order is a first for the district. “Perhaps that is why it creates confusion among people, why. For example, in Riga, it has always been the case, but in Rēzeknes district it is the first time. At first, there were a lot of anglers on the water. We carried out preventive work, talked to people, explained, verbally warned. Mostly we deliver verbal warnings, but Notice also quite a few cases where administrative fines are applied.”

Rēzeknes district’s municipal police are conducting daily checks of local lakes to enforce the ban. The move underscores the seriousness with which local authorities are treating the issue of ice safety.

Fire and rescue services have also cautioned that the ice on waterways is currently unsafe. Several incidents have involved minors, highlighting the need for increased awareness and supervision. According to reports, authorities have already rescued ten people from the ice this year, and tragically, three people have died in ice-related accidents.