Photo by Cassie Matias (Unsplash: Link)
1. Treat all ice as unsafe
If you are unsure about the ice conditions, don’t go on the ice! It is your responsibility to know about the ice conditions (such as the type of ice and how thick it is). Not knowing can be fatal.
2. Know what to do if you or someone else falls through
Before heading out on the ice, you should always know what to do if you or someone else falls through. If someone falls through the ice, quick action is key.
If you fall through the ice:
If someone else falls through the ice:
3. Know where you are going and tell someone before venturing out
Before venturing out, let someone know where you’re going, who is with you, and what time you expect to be back. That way, if things go wrong, emergency crews will know where to look. Ensure that your cell phone is fully charged beforehand. Bonus points if you have regular check-ins.
You may be going on an adventure that will have limited or no cell phone service. In that case, you should be prepared by bringing a GPS satellite phone. For places with patchy service, consider downloading the app what3words.
4. Know the ice type
There are two main types of ice: white ice and clear (or black) ice. White ice has many air pockets in it, making it look white. Avoid white ice as the air pockets make the ice weak and unstable.
Clear or black ice has fewer air pockets, so it’s much stronger. Keep off of rivers and creeks as these areas take much longer to freeze than lakes.
Photo by Mike Cox (Unsplash: Link)
5. Know the ice thickness
Ice thickness is not the same everywhere. Ice thickness will vary depending on a number of things, such as how deep and big the lake is, water currents and movement, the time of year, and many other factors.
Make some test holes with an ice auger to help assess the ice conditions (like the ice type and thickness).
But how do you know when the ice is thick enough for your desired activity?
The guide below will give you an idea of what sorts of activities can be done on ice of varying thickness. This guide applies to clear or black ice. If there is white ice where you are, double the thickness requirement to be safe.
Image: Meaghan Callon
If you don’t have an ice auger or spud bar to check the ice thickness yourself, not to worry! Call a local ice fishing hut operator to ask for the local ice conditions.
Knowing where and where not to go, the type of ice, and the ice thickness is just the tip of the iceberg (pardon the pun). If you’re not getting cold feet about stepping onto the ice, read on. And if you are nervous, you should keep reading too. Knowledge is power!
6. Bundle up
Out on the ice, there are no breaks from the wind, so bust out the layers and windbreakers. Even in overcast weather, don’t forget to cover your face and wear sunglasses. The snow and ice act as a mirror, and will reflect the sunlight up into your eyes and onto your face. Any exposed skin can get frostbite, windburn, and even a sunburn.
Photo by Clay Banks (Unsplash: Link)
7. Gear up
You don’t need to break the bank if you want to venture onto the ice. However, having some extra safety gear is always good practice.
Here are some examples of safety gear:
As you gear up for your icy adventures, remember that knowledge and preparation are your greatest allies. Stay safe, stay warm, and make unforgettable memories.