Think twice before going out on the ice

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is reminding Northlanders to think twice before going out on the ice.

According to recreation safety specialists with the DNR, ice that formed quickly during the recent sub-zero temperatures is now thawing and refreezing, which leads to extremely weak ice that is dangerously deceptive 
In a statement this afternoon, Lisa Dugan, DNR recreation safety outreach coordinator said, “There are many variables to consider, including whether a waterbody has a current or run-off, the freeze-thaw cycle, and snow cover. Rivers have been especially problematic, as water levels have continued to drop even after surface ice formed, creating dangerous air pockets under the ice.” 

Conservation officers across the state are reporting vehicles, snowmobiles and ATVs going through the ice on lakes where ice may be relatively thick in one area, with as little as 4-5 inches nearby.  

Conservation Officer Lisa Kruse said, “No ice should ever be considered 100 percent safe, and checking ice thickness every 150 feet is imperative when on inconsistent early ice.”
For ice safety tips and thickness guidelines are available at: mndnr.gov/icesafety