(WFRV) – With a stretch of warmer days throughout Wisconsin during a popular time for outdoor winter activities, especially sturgeon spearing season, the DNR is urging caution as “no ice is 100% safe.”
Wisconsin DNR officials noted that a recent stretch of warm weather is causing ice to thin, increasing the likelihood of snowmobiles, UTVs, and vehicles falling through the ice.
“Ice conditions are unpredictable and can change quickly on Wisconsin’s rivers and lakes. The ice covers hide the currents, debris and underground springs still feeding lakes and rivers, thinning the ice in spots,” said Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, DNR off-highway vehicle administrator. “No matter if you’re on foot, on a snowmobile or in a UTV, it’s important to remember that ice is never 100% safe.”
Two trucks fall through ice on Lake Winnebago near Menasha
Ice conditions are monitored locally and not by the DNR.
Ice Safety Reminders from the Wisconsin DNR:
- No ice is ever 100% safe
- The DNR does not monitor ice conditions
- Check with local fishing clubs or sports shops that may monitor ice thickness
- Have a plan – wear warm clothes, take or wear a floatation device and tell others where you are going
- Bring spare dry clothes and keep your cell phone in a waterproof container or bag
- Check ice thickness as you go out with a spud bar
- Traveling at night can be dangerous – make sure you are familiar with the area
Visit the DNR’s Ice Safety webpage for more information on staying safe on frozen waterbodies.
