Enjoy the Outdoors Safely This Winter
Remember These Tips For Ice
And Snowmobile Safety
Winter is in full swing. Anglers are enjoying ice fishing throughout the state and hikers, skiers and snowmobilers are traveling across frozen surfaces.
Remember – no ice is safe ice. The DNR does not monitor ice conditions and we suggest contacting local snowmobile clubs, bait shops, fishing clubs or resorts to ask about ice conditions in your area.
Follow these safety tips when heading out on ice:
- Dress in warm, water-resistant layers and pack an extra hat and gloves.
- Stay safely on shore if ice conditions are questionable and if open water is within casting distance.
- Use sturdy waterproof boots with spike-style creepers for traction.
- Carry some basic safety gear: ice claws or picks, a cellphone in a waterproof bag or case and rope.
- Wear a life jacket or a float coat to help stay afloat and slow body heat loss.
- Make sure someone knows where you are and when you are expected to return.
- Don't travel in areas you are not familiar with and don't travel at night or during reduced visibility.
- Avoid inlets, outlets or narrows with currents that can thin the ice.
- Look for clear ice, which is generally stronger than ice with snow on it or bubbles in it.
- Watch out for pressure ridges or ice heaves. These can be dangerous due to thin ice and open water.
Snowmobilers, be sure to review Wisconsin’s snowmobile safety rules before heading out this winter. And, click here for more snowmobile safety tips.
Photo Credit: Steve Bensing
Magazine's Winter Issue Highlights Ice BeautyTake a look at the unique and beautiful frozen phenomena you might see throughout the state this season in the "Ice, Ice Beauty" feature in the Winter issue of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine. Learn the difference between hoarfrost and rime ice and read how frozen formations such as ice caves, shoves and volcanoes are formed.
Photo Credit: Michael DeWitt |
Ice Shanty Removal DatesWhile ice shanties are an important shelter from the elements, it's never too early to make a plan for removal ahead of the close of the season. All permanent shanties, or those not removed daily, must be removed from state waters by March 15. Other shanty removal dates are:
Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR |
Keep Wildlife Wild Poster ContestThe DNR’s Keep Wildlife Wild initiative reminds people to observe wildlife at a respectful distance and be especially mindful of young animals, which may be incorrectly viewed as orphaned when seen without a parent. In most cases, the mother is somewhere nearby waiting to tend to her young. Wisconsin students in grades 4-6 can help spread the message “If you care, leave them there!” by entering the DNR’s fourth annual Keep Wildlife Wild poster contest.
Read more about the Keep Wildlife Wild program to keep young animals healthy and safe in the Spring issue of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine, coming in mid-March. Photo Credit: Jeremy Turnmeyer |
#OutWiGo By Candlelight!Candlelight ski, hike and snowshoe events continue throughout February at state parks, trails, forests and recreation areas.
Photo Credit: Jim Kuchler |