A mix of warm and cold weather across Minnesota has created inconsistent ice on lakes, rivers and ponds. The Department of Natural Resources is warning parents to keep an eye on their children this Thanksgiving, and all winter long, as they visit friends and family who live near bodies of water.

Last winter season (November to April), three people died after falling through the ice.

“Kids are adventurous and want to go out and play while mom and dad are cooking or visiting with friends. Right now, a thin coating of ice has formed on many lakes and ponds. An inch or two of ice is not safe,” said Capt. Todd Kanieski, DNR regional enforcement manager.

He added, children should not go out on the ice without adult supervision, even when conditions improve.

“Parents should also tell their children to stay away from any frozen water bodies around the home and that no ice is ever 100 percent safe,” Kanieski said.

The DNR recommends anyone heading out on the ice should: carry a set of ice picks, check with a local bait shop or resort – ask about ice conditions – and measure the ice.

DNR clear ice thickness recommendations are:

  • 4 inches for walking.
  • 5 inches for a snowmobile or ATV.
  • 8-12 inches for a car.
  • 12-15 inches for a medium-sized truck.

Have a fun, but safe, winter!

 

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