Wisconsin DNR ice safety reminders, conditions to watch for
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminds everyone to practice ice safety on all bodies of water – and remember that no ice is safe ice.
Frigid overnight temperatures often leave a thin layer of ice across smaller bodies of water, the DNR said, but that ice is not strong enough to support the weight of a person or machine.
"After we have these first cold nights, we start to see the early ice forming. It may look solid to the naked eye, but it’s not," said DNR Lt. Jacob Holsclaw. "There can be cracks and changes in the ice thickness that you won’t see until it’s too late."
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The DNR said temperature swings, strong winds, currents, underground springs feeding lakes and rivers vary widely across Wisconsin – and even across a given lake or river. These factors and more are why no ice is ever considered safe, especially not this early in the season.
The DNR does not monitor ice conditions. If your plans include access to or use of an ice-covered waterbody, contact local fishing clubs, bait shops or outfitters for ice conditions.
Each body of water can have its own characteristics, the DNR said. Check if the lake has inlets, outlets, narrows that have currents or is spring-fed – all of which can thin the ice. Some smaller lakes can have aerators that are run throughout the winter.
The DNR said it is equally as important to stay alert for pressure ridges or ice heaves. These can be dangerous due to thin ice and resulting open water. They are often created, move or grow with changes in temperatures and high winds. Pressure ridges and ice heaves can happen on Lake Winnebago – a popular home to sturgeon spearers – and the Bay of Green Bay.
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Here are a few basic ice safety tips to remember:
- Carry a cellphone and let people know where you are going and when you’ll return home.
- Wear proper clothing and equipment, including a life jacket or a float coat, to help you stay afloat and to help maintain body heat.
- Wear ice creepers attached to boots to prevent slipping on clear ice.
- Carry a spud bar to check the ice while walking to new areas.
- Carry a few spikes and a length of light rope in an easily accessible pocket to help pull yourself – or others – out of the ice.
- If you fall in, remain as calm as possible. While attempting to get out of the water, call for help. Anyone who attempts to rescue you should use a rope or something similar to avoid falling through themselves.
- Do not travel in unfamiliar areas or at night.
Have a plan in place noting where you will be and when you plan to return. Along with leaving a written note of your plans, keeping a charged cellphone is also recommended.
Check out the DNR’s Ice Safety webpage for more information on staying safe on the ice, including tips for creating ice claws and what to do if you fall through ice.