Wisconsin DNR urges residents to practice ice safety this winter

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – The Wisconsin Division of Pure Sources is encouraging residents to follow ice security on waterbodies this winter season.

Early-season ice on Wisconsin waterbodies is skinny and weak, the DNR says. Though there have been a number of latest breakthrough rescues, none of them have been deadly.

Anybody planning on accessing ice-covered waterbodies ought to test ice situations by contacting native fishing golf equipment, bait retailers or outfitters. The DNR doesn’t monitor ice situations.

Ice situations fluctuate relying on the sort and dimension of a waterbody. Lakes which have currents or are spring fed are related to thinner ice situations. The DNR warns residents to pay attention to ice heaves and strain ridges, which may occur on Lake Winnebago and the Bay of Inexperienced Bay.

These utilizing the Bay of Inexperienced Bay this winter also needs to pay attention to flowing icebergs that happen when transport channels are energetic.

The DNR reminds residents of the next ice security suggestions to bear in mind:

• Have a charged cellphone accessible, and let folks know the place you might be and when you’ll return.
• Put on a life jacket or a float coat to remain afloat and keep physique warmth.
• Connect ice creepers to your boots to keep away from slipping.
• Use a spud bar to test ice situations when strolling to new areas.
• Carry a couple of spikes and a lightweight rope to drag your self or others our of the ice.
• If you happen to fall, stay calm and name for assist. Rescuers ought to use a rope to keep away from falling by way of.
• Keep away from utilizing the ice at evening and in unfamiliar areas.

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