As others see it: Be sure ice is safe

Talk about it

The past week’s subzero temperatures fostered a quick freeze on area lakes, but ice anglers still need to be wary of ice conditions. The ice may just not be strong enough yet to support vehicles.

“There is no such thing as 100 percent safe ice,” says the state Department of Natural Resources on its Ice Safety Web page. ...

General guidelines, however, suggest that:

* Ice 2 inches thick or less, stay off.

* Ice about 4 inches thick will permit ice fishing or other activities on foot.

* Ice at least 5 inches thick will allow snowmobile or ATV use.

* Ice 8 inches to 12 inches thick can sustain a car or small truck.

* Ice 12 to 15 inches thick can support a medium truck.

The DNR suggests those who travel on ice to check for known thin ice areas by checking with a local resort or bait shop. If you must travel in ice in a vehicle, be prepared to leave it in a hurry. Keep windows down, unbuckle your seat belt and have a simple emergency plan of action.

If traveling on ice by snowmobile, the DNR warns not to “overdrive” the headlight. At even 30 mph, it can take much longer to stop on ice than your headlight shines. Wearing a life vest under your winter gear is also a good idea. ...

A winter season is upon us, full with its activities that include ice fishing and snowmobiling on lakes and rivers. But please exercise caution and make sure the solid ice is safe for travel.

Bemidji Pioneer

Tags: opinion, editorials, ice, winter, safety, dnr