PHOTO: Courtesy of WLUK
MADISON, WI(WTAQ-WLUK) — The warmer weather that is melting ice on roads and sidewalks also threatens to melt ice on lakes and rivers across Wisconsin.
The state Department of Natural Resources issued a warning Tuesday for those going on onto the ice.
Since the DNR does not monitor ice conditions, it recommends contacting fishing clubs, bait shops or outfitters in the area before going out.
The DNR also reminds outdoors enthusiasts that each water body can have its own characteristics. Inlets, outlets, narrows that have currents, and springs can all thin ice on lakes. Some smaller lakes may have aerators that are run throughout the winter that can also thin ice. Aerators may be toward the center of the lake; property owners may also place smaller aerators near their shorelines and docks.
Larger bodies of water, including Lake Winnebago and Green Bay, can also have pressure ridges or ice heaves. Changes in temperature or high winds can create these or make them larger.
The DNR also shares these tips:
- Carry a cell phone, 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 cell phone is also recommended.
No ice should ever be considered 100% safe, the DNR says.
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