ST PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says they are getting a lot of reports of folks walking onto the ice, and with the warmer winter weather, it may not be safe. As a result, the DNR is asking folks to take a number of precautions if they’re antsy for ice season. 

Make sure you know what the recommended ice thickness is for your activity, and bring safety gear like ice picks and life jackets. Doing a little research can save a life.

“I unfortunately have to hear the stories as they come through,” said Nicole Biagi, the DNR’s Ice Safety Coordinator. “And you sometimes I feel like we’re repeating the same message every year, but it seems like it’s never too much.”

Biagi recommends that you do not set foot out on the ice that is less than four inches of new, clear ice. The inch requirements go up depending on how large a vehicle is. 

The DNR says that no ice can ever be considered safe, but experts recommend the following guidelines: 

• Always wear a life jacket or float coat on the ice (except when in a vehicle).
• Carry ice picks, rope, an ice chisel and tape measure.
• Check ice thickness at regular intervals.
• Bring a cell phone or personal locator beacon.
• Don’t go out alone.
• Let someone know where you will be going.
• Before heading out, inquire about conditions and known hazards with local experts.

Parents and guardians should talk with their children and neighborhood children about staying away from the ice unless there’s adult supervision. This includes lakes and rivers, as well as neighborhood ponds, retention ponds and anywhere ice forms.

For more information, visit the DNR’s website. 

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