Don't Let Thin Ice Kill You: Southington Health Department

SOUTHINGTON, CT — Baby it's cold outside, but it doesn't necessarily mean that ice many love to play on is safe.

A deep-water plummet into any lake or pond's icy waters likely means certain death, which is why the South Central Health District — which serves Southington, Plainville, and Middlefield — issues a special alert Thursday morning amid a major cold snap in the state.

The Southington-based regional health agency issued an in-depth message about ice safety and how to avoid an icy plunge to your demise.

"As the cold sets in and ponds start freezing over, it’s tempting to grab your skates, hockey sticks, or fishing gear and head out. But remember safety first," wrote the health department.

"Not all ice is created equal and thickness matters. Strong ice is clear with a bluish tint, while weak ice (from melted and refrozen snow) appears milky."

The health department offered a basic chart regarding ice thickness and what is safe:

• 2 inches or less: Stay off—it’s unsafe.

• 4 inches: Safe for ice fishing, skating, and walking.

• 5-7 inches: OK for snowmobiles or ATVs.

• 8-12 inches: Suitable for cars or light trucks.

• 12-15 inches: Strong enough for medium trucks.

"Stay off ice with slush on top—it's only half as strong as clear ice," wrote the department.

"Ice weakens with age, and currents or shoreline water areas are especially risky. Avoid areas with protruding debris like logs or brush. Always test ice thickness in multiple spots and never assume all areas are equally safe."

For more information on ice safety, click on this link.