ST PAUL, Minn. — Our recent blast of cold air in Minnesota has many fired up to start outdoor winter activities, especially after the wimpy season we had last year.
But a handful of incidents Monday underline how rushing things can be not only dangerous but deadly. First responders in Woodbury pulled a total of three people from a pair of lakes after they went through the ice and into the waters of Markgrafs and Wilmes Lakes. The conditions of those who went in have not been confirmed.
Further north, search crews recovered the body of 78-year-old Gregory Garmer, who was ice skating on Woodstock Bay, just off the St. Louis River in Superior, when he went in.
Not knowing the thickness or quality of the ice not only endangers the person going out on it, first responders who are dispatched to rescue them are also put at risk.
Every year, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issues a plea for good decision-making when it comes to early-season ice, and every year... people fail to listen. Here is a message they hope you will hear.
There is no such thing as 100% safe ice
Ice quality can be impacted by fluctuating temperatures, snow cover, currents and springs, and even fish schooling. Ice can measure two feet thick in one place and just inches thick a few yards away.
These guidelines for going on new, clear ice are likely familiar, but a good rule of thumb to keep yourself safe.
- 4 inches - Mostly adequate for ice fishing or foot traffic
- 5 to 7 inches - Can hold up a snowmobile or small ATV
- 7 to 8 inches - Needed to operate a side-by-side ATV
- 9 to 10 inches - Generally safe to operate a small car or SUV
- 11 to 12 inches - Medium SUV or truck
- 13 inches - Medium truck
- 16 to 17 inches - Needed to support a heavy-duty truck
- 20 inches plus - Heavy duty truck plus wheelhouse shelter/fish house
While the DNR does not check ice for official measurements, they encourage outdoor enthusiasts to do so, by using an ice auger, chisel or cordless drill and a tape measure.
There are many other factors that impact the quality and safety of ice that covers Minnesota's lakes, rivers and streams. Learn about them, guidelines for traveling on ice, and how to formulate an escape plan in a special section on the DNR website.
Know before you go.