Crossing the Kyiv Reservoir
Two adventurers have completed a trek across the frozen Kyiv Reservoir, following a route from Kozarovychi to Lebedivka and back, covering a distance of approximately 27 kilometers. The ice thickness along their path was over 20 cm, which meets established safety standards for such expeditions. The news outlet 'Hlavkom' reported the event, citing the Telegram channel Live 24/7.
Safety on the Ice
Covering an area of over 920 square kilometers and stretching 110 km long, the Kyiv Reservoir is a massive body of water. In the Vyshhorod district, the distance between shores is about 13.5 km. The adventurers demonstrated a serious approach to safety by using a power drill to check the ice thickness. According to guidelines from Ukraine's State Emergency Service (SES), the minimum safe ice thickness is 7 cm for a single person and 15 cm for a group.
However, since the start of 2026, seven people, including a child, have died on Ukrainian water bodies, underscoring the critical importance of ice safety. The SES provides several key recommendations for safe ice travel:
- Only venture onto ice during periods of stable, freezing weather;
- Carry a pole to test the ice's strength (never test it with your foot);
- Maintain a distance of 5-6 meters between individuals when moving in a group;
- Avoid areas where the ice color changes and spots with currents.
Additionally, experts advise:
- Carry a strong rope 12-15 meters long;
- Do not run or jump on the ice;
- Avoid hazardous locations such as areas near reeds, bushes, trees, bridges, dams, river inlets, or any spots with currents or dark patches.
Knowing what to do in an emergency is crucial for personal safety. The vast, frozen landscapes of the region, often called the 'Kyiv Sea,' attract both tourists and thrill-seekers, making safety awareness paramount.
German photographer Till Mayer has published a series of photos from the Kyiv Sea, which visually attest to the expansive winter scenery that draws adventurers to the area.
This incident highlights the vital need to follow safety rules during winter ice crossings, especially considering the tragic accidents that have occurred on Ukrainian water bodies this year. Even with sufficient ice thickness, adventurers must always exercise caution and be fully aware of the potential risks associated with such activities. The winter vistas of the Kyiv Reservoir continue to attract not only tourists but also those seeking extreme experiences, reaffirming the importance of preparedness and safety in these situations.