Ice-covered lakes offer a winter wonderland for a variety of activities, from ice fishing to skating and snowmobiling. However, enjoying these frozen expanses requires careful preparation and the right safety tools to ensure your adventure doesn’t turn dangerous. Let’s explore the must-have items to keep you safe while out on the ice.
Ice Picks or Ice Claws
- Why You Need Them: If the ice breaks and you fall in, ice picks are lifesaving tools that help you climb back onto solid ice. These sharp, handheld tools give you the grip needed to pull yourself out of freezing water.
- How to Use: Keep ice picks around your neck on a cord for easy access. If you fall through, use them to anchor into the ice and pull yourself forward while kicking your legs.
Floatation Device
- Why You Need It: Falling through ice can quickly lead to hypothermia. Wearing a floatation device increases your buoyancy, keeping your head above water and giving you time to self-rescue or await help.
- Wear a lightweight life jacket.
- Opt for a floatation suit designed specifically for ice anglers and snowmobilers.
Ice Spud Bar
- Why You Need It: This long, metal tool helps check the ice’s thickness and strength as you walk. Regularly testing the ice with a spud bar can prevent accidents before they occur.
- How to Use: Strike the ice ahead of you with the spud bar. If it breaks through, the ice is too thin to support your weight.
Ice Safety Ropes
- Why You Need Them: Ice safety ropes are essential for rescuing someone who’s fallen through the ice without putting yourself at risk.
- How to Use:
- Keep a rope with a float or weighted throw bag attached.
- Secure the rope onshore or hold one end while tossing the other to the person in the water.
Whistle or Signal Device
- Why You Need It: A whistle is a simple yet effective way to call for help if you’re in trouble. It’s especially useful in noisy or windy conditions where shouting might not be heard.
- How to Use: Keep a whistle on your floatation device or jacket for quick access. Three short blasts signal an emergency.
Ice Cleats or Crampons
- Why You Need Them: Ice can be extremely slippery, making falls a serious hazard. Ice cleats or crampons attach to your boots and provide traction on slick surfaces.
- How to Use: Strap them securely onto your boots before stepping onto the ice to reduce the risk of slips and falls.
First Aid Kit
Why You Need It: Accidents can happen, even with the best precautions. A first aid kit allows you to treat minor injuries on-site, such as cuts from sharp ice or bruises from falls.
What to Include:
- Bandages and antiseptic wipes
- Thermal blankets
- Hand warmers
- Pain relievers
Ice Auger or Drill
- Why You Need It: Knowing the ice’s thickness is critical. An ice auger or drill lets you create holes to measure the ice depth before venturing out.
- How to Use: Drill a test hole near the shore and measure the ice. Safe ice thickness guidelines are:
- 4 inches: Safe for walking or ice fishing
- 5-7 inches: Safe for snowmobiles or ATVs
- 8-12 inches: Safe for small cars
Portable Shelter or Windbreak
- Why You Need It: Exposure to cold winds can lead to frostbite or hypothermia. A portable ice shelter or windbreak provides immediate protection from the elements.
- How to Use: Set up your shelter close to your activity area and use it as a warm-up spot or a refuge during sudden weather changes.
Emergency Throw Bag
- Why You Need It: In addition to ropes, a throw bag is a compact and efficient rescue tool. It’s a bag filled with coiled rope that can be thrown to someone in distress.
- How to Use: Hold onto the rope end, aim for the person in the water, and throw the bag past them so they can grab it and be pulled to safety.
Ice Thickness Guide
- Why You Need It: Having a laminated guide with ice safety information helps you make informed decisions about where and when it’s safe to venture out.
- How to Use: Check the guide frequently and adhere to its recommendations for various activities.
GPS Device or Smartphone with Mapping App
- Why You Need It: Ice-covered lakes can look deceptively similar, making it easy to lose your bearings. A GPS device or smartphone ensures you stay oriented and can find your way back to safety.
- How to Use: Mark your entry point and any known hazards. Ensure your device is fully charged and consider carrying a portable charger.
Backup Clothing and Hand Warmers
- Why You Need Them: Getting wet on the ice is dangerous. Carrying a dry set of clothing and hand warmers can prevent hypothermia in case of an accidental plunge.
- What to Pack:
- Thermal underwear
- Waterproof gloves and socks
- Wool hat
Headlamp or Flashlight
- Why You Need It: Short winter days and sudden weather changes can leave you in darkness. A headlamp or flashlight ensures visibility for navigation and signaling.
- How to Use: Keep it on your person and check batteries before heading out. Opt for waterproof and rechargeable models.
Buddy System
- Why It’s Essential: Never venture onto the ice alone. A companion can call for help or assist in a rescue if something goes wrong.
- How to Practice:
- Stay within sight of each other.
- Discuss an emergency plan before heading out.
Knowledge of Ice Conditions
- Why It’s Essential: Understanding how weather, currents, and lake geography affect ice formation can save your life.
- Key Points:
- Avoid areas near inlets, outlets, or underwater springs.
- Be cautious during early and late winter when ice is most unpredictable.
- Check local ice reports for updates.
Final Thoughts
Preparation and awareness are your best defenses against the risks of ice lake adventures. Equip yourself with these essential ice safety tools and ensure they’re easily accessible. Remember, no catch, skate, or thrill is worth your safety. Stay vigilant, respect the ice, and enjoy the winter wonderland responsibly, at your lakefront home.
Posted by Scott Freerksen “The Lake Guy”