Minnesota Lake Ice Safety: What You Need To Know

It's only mid-November, but ice is starting to form on some Minnesota lakes. Outdoor enthusiasts may be tempted to get out before ice is thick enough to support foot traffic. State conservation officers have a message: stay off the ice until at least four inches of new, clear ice is present.

On average, about three to four people die each winter season on Minnesota water. Most of those deaths occurred with someone operating a snowmobile or ATV on the ice, according to the DNR.

The DNR offers the following guidelines for new clear ice:

• Four inches for ice fishing or other activities on foot.
• Five inches for snowmobile or ATV.
• Eight-12 inches for car or small pickup.
• 12-15 inches for medium truck.

Ice thickness may vary greatly across a single body of water, making it important to check the ice conditions before heading out.

Once out on the ice, a safety kit is a good idea, should the ice give way. An ice safety kit should include:

• Rope
• Ice picks
• Ice chisel
• Tape measure

Last, tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

Photo credit: AP Photo/Jack Rendulich