State DNR: Use Caution On Frozen Waterways

News Release

INDIANAPOLIS — With the recent temperature drops across the state, Indiana Conservation Officers are advising Hoosiers across the state of the potential hazards of being on frozen lakes, ponds, rivers and streams.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources asks people to keep a watchful eye for others who may venture out on neighborhood retention ponds, lakes and other waterways and find themselves in trouble.

Every winter, thousands of Hoosiers safely enjoy fishing, skating, hiking or just sliding around on frozen ponds and lakes. And every year, people drown after falling through ice.

The best rule of thumb is to put safety first. The DNR ask people to believe it is thin ice unless proven otherwise.

Here are a few tips for people to remember when considering standing on or walking on a frozen lake or pond:

• Remember that no ice is safe ice.
• If people don’t know the thickness of the ice, they shouldn’t go on it.
• Before going on the ice, people should leave a note of their whereabouts with a friend or family member.
• Don’t test the thickness of ice while alone.
• When testing the thickness of ice, use an ice auger. At least 4 inches of ice is recommended for ice fishing; at least 5 inches is recommended for snowmobiling.
• Wear a life jacket or flotation coat.
• Carry ice hooks and rope gear.
• Wearing a life jacket is especially important when on the ice. If people fall through, a life jacket will keep their heads above the water until help arrives.
• Remember that the coatings of snow that Indiana receives can also make for treacherous ice conditions. The snow can insulate the ice, causing it to freeze at a slower rate. When snow and rain freeze into ice, it is never as strong as solid, clear ice.

Some other tips:

• If people see a pet or other animal in distress on the ice, they should not go on the ice after it. Doing so can often end in tragedy. Instead, they should contact their local emergency response personnel who are equipped to make a rescue.
• Remember that some bodies of water will appear to be frozen solid but can have thin ice in several potentially unexpected areas.
• Flowing water, such as rivers and streams, should be avoided when covered by a layer of ice.
• Water that is surrounded by sand may freeze with inconsistencies in the thickness of the ice.
• Underground springs, wind, waterfowl and other animals can also keep areas of ice thin.
• Enjoy the winter weather but make safety a priority.