Here are some helpful tips if you plan to venture out on the ice, courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard.
Never go out alone.
Wear waterproof clothing and a life jacket in case you fall through the ice.
Be aware of weather conditions because any change can result in a difference in ice thickness.
Carry two ice picks or screwdrivers to dig into the ice in case you fall through.
If you're in distress, there are some good items to have to alert other people, including:
Cell phone
Whistle
Radio
Flare gun
Other tips include:
Write down where you are going, how long you will be gone, who you are with, where you are leaving from, where your vehicle is parked, what it looks like, and its license number, along with a description of your snowmobile or ice shanty. Give the information to a close friend or family member who will know the timetable that you are expected to be gone.
Wear a life jacket and brightly colored clothing.
Take a compass.
Know the area well before going.
Know the strength of the ice before leaving and test in front of you as you walk.
Only walk across areas of at least 4 inches of clear, solid ice. Remember, though, that even if ice is 1 foot thick in one area on a lake, it can be 1-inch thick just a few yards away.
Snowmobiles need at least 5 inches of ice, and cars and light trucks need at least 8 to 12 inches of good clear ice to be safe on it.
Do not cross cracks with open water and room for ice to move.
Do not go alone.
Carry devices to signal for help, such as auto flares, a marine radio, a cellular phone, a whistle, or any light source.
Avoid alcoholic beverages. This increase your chances for hypothermia and increase the likelihood that you will make a mistake that will cost you or a companion their life.
Source: U.S. Coast Guard
