Ice Is Nice, And Will Suffice…When It Is Thick Enough

By Nancy K. Crevier

The springlike temperatures this week belie the fact that several weeks of winter remain in our area and the probability of upcoming days of freezing temperatures will once more tempt winter sports enthusiasts to take to the ice for skating, fishing, or even ice sailing.

There is always the question, though, as to when it is safe to go out on frozen bodies of water. Recent information received this week at The Newtown Bee from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Bureau of Natural Resources, clarified questions about when it is safe to take part in winter activities on ponds, lakes, and streams.

Anything less than three inches of ice is considered unsafe, and no one should venture onto the ice. When the ice reaches three inches of thickness, one cross-country skier can safely journey across the body of frozen water. One angler is safe when ice reaches a thickness of four inches, and one snowmobile can head across a lake or pond when the ice is five inches thick.

For group activities, such as hockey or ice skating parties, though, the DEP recommends the ice be no less than seven inches thick, at which time it should be able to support a total of 1,500 pounds. Winter sports fans should be aware, too, that the ice might not be the same thickness all over the lake or pond. Several pressure cracks should serve as a warning to stay away, and areas where brush, logs, plants, or docks stick up out of the water should be avoided, as the ice may not be safe there.

Large groups of people on the ice will want to spread out, so as not to put undue stress on just one area of the body of water, and extra care must be taken on frozen rivers and streams where moving water beneath the surface can wear away the ice.

Preparing for the weather and possible emergencies is a vital part of outdoor winter activities. The DEP offered tips for ice anglers and skaters to make sure that these activities stay safe and fun.

Dress for the weather, in layers, and do not forget a warm hat, and waterproof boots and mittens. Pack extra dry clothes and socks. Hand and foot warmers make for a toasty outing on very cold days.

Bring a small bag of sand when going out onto ice. Sand sprinkled around a fishing hole provides traction.

Bring along a rope just in case someone does fall through the ice, a first aid kit, and matches stored in a waterproof container. A personal flotation device (PFD) seat cushion provides a cozy seat cushion, or can be used in case of emergency.

If the ice gives way and someone does go into the water, remember the rules of Reach, Throw, Row, and Go: Reach with a stick or pole; Throw out a PFD or rope; Row or push a boat; and Go — for help. Bring a cellphone so that emergency help can be contacted.

A wet, cold person needs to be warmed as soon as possible to prevent hypothermia from setting in. Warm fluids, dry clothes, a blanket, and shelter are essential until help arrives.

If there is any doubt as to the safety of the ice, remember that there will be other days and other winters for ice activities.