With cold weather returning across much of the state, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is reminding ice anglers and other recreationists not to be fooled by any remaining ice on lakes and streams.
Over the past week, public safety officials have reported more than a half-dozen ice emergencies across the state involving anglers and ATV riders breaking through thin or weak ice.
“The freeze-thaw cycle produces extremely weak ice that is dangerously deceptive in its appearance and how thick it measures,” said Debbie Munson Badini, outreach coordinator with the DNR’s boat and water safety program. “A cold snap now doesn’t change the fact that ice had already begun melting and is continuing to deteriorate rapidly.”
According to the DNR, many lakes and streams in southern and central Minnesota are already ice-free, going from ice-covered to open water over the course of a day or two. As the sun gains strength with the onset of spring, ice conditions can change dramatically within a matter of hours even when the air temperature remains cold.
“We’ve had reports of anglers falling through ice that was just fine an hour earlier. That’s how fast things can change,” Munson Badini said. “If you do choose to venture onto late season ice, use extreme caution. Use a chisel to check the strength of the ice frequently, be sure to wear a life jacket or float coat, and remember that no fish is worth the risk of losing your life.”
While no ice-related fatalities have been reported yet during the 2015-2016 season, Munson Badini said this is the time of year when people tend to let their guard down about ice safety. She emphasized the importance of warning children and spring break visitors to stay away from ice and open water unless accompanied by a responsible adult.
For additional information about ice safety, visit www.mndnr.gov/icesafety.
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