Iowa DNR offers tips to help stay safe when on the ice this winter
The recent blast of arctic air is growing ice on lakes and ponds across the northern two-thirds of Iowa. Outdoor ice enthusiasts are ready to get out ice fishing, snowmobiling, ice skating or fat-tire bike riding. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recommends a minimum of four inches of clear ice for fishing and at least five inches for snowmobiles and ATVs.
Ice forms at different rates on each body of water depending upon the size and water depth. Once frozen, conditions change constantly and ice thickness can vary across the lake. Rocks, trees, docks or other things that poke through the ice will conduct heat and make the ice around it less stable. Trust instincts - if the ice does not look right, don’t go out.
A blanket of snow on top of an ice-covered lake insulates the ice, slowing the growth of ice and hiding potential hazards or weak spots. River ice is 15 percent weaker than lake ice. Ice with a bluish color is safer than clear ice. Avoid slushy or honey-combed areas and stay away from dark spots on the ice. Don’t walk into areas where the snow cover looks discolored.
Safety Tips on the Ice
• No ice is 100 percent safe.
• New ice is usually stronger than old ice.
• Don’t go out alone - if the worst should happen, someone will be there to call for help or to help rescue.
• Those trekking out on the ice should let someone know where they are going and when they will be returning.
• Check ice thickness whole progressing out - there could be pockets of thin ice or places where ice recently formed.
• Avoid off-colored snow or ice. It is usually a sign of weakness.
• The insulating effect of snow slows down the freezing process.
• Bring along these basic items to help keep safe: hand warmers, ice cleats to help prevent falls, ice picks (wear around the neck) to help crawl out of the water after falling in, a life jacket, a floating safety rope, a whistle to call for help, a basic first aid kit and extra dry clothes including a pair of gloves.
• Use extreme caution when snowmobiling on ice. Snowmobiles can be difficult to steer and take a long time to stop with limited traction on ice. Slow down and avoid heavy braking.
