Statistics show that incidents tend to increase during April and May when many mining operations begin ramping up operations, often with new employees who are unaware of the hazards of mining. Spring Thaw is designed to increase awareness of hazards for both surface coal and sand and gravel mines, and improve mine safety and health. During this educational event, safety professionals from mining companies, the NDSC and government will share information and experiences in dealing with a range of mining dangers, and provide an annual update covering new initiatives.