Sheriff warns that ice may be unsafe
In the wake of several ice-related accidents throughout Michigan over the weekend, state officials reminded residents that safety should be a top priority for everyone enjoying outdoor recreation on frozen lakes and rivers. According to Presque Isle County sheriff Terry Flewelling, there have been no problems with vehicles or ice fishermen breaking through the ice of county lakes (as of Tuesday), but even with the cold temperatures he said he ?would be staying close to shore? this weekend.
SEVERAL SNOWMOBILERS and ice anglers fell through ice on various bodies of water throughout the state over the weekend. Michigan State Police confirmed the following fatalities:
? Two snowmobilers on Long Lake in Traverse County, January 9
? Two snowmobilers on Houghton Lake in Roscommon County, January 12
Flewelling said officials in Traverse County called the PI sheriff?s department, looking for a hover craft to assist in the rescue, but the county doesn?t own one.
Those planning outings on frozen waterways during the coming weeks are urged to exercise extreme caution. Recent weather trends have created unpredictable ice on Michigan waters.
THE FOLLOWING DNR guidelines can help keep outdoor enthusiasts safe and dry:
? Four inches of ice will generally hold an average-sized person on foot. Snowmobiles and ORVs need at least eight inches of solid, consistent ice.
? Ice does not form with uniform thickness on any body of
? Clear ice is the strongest. Ice formed by melted and refrozen snow appears milky, is very porous and very weak. Ice covered by snow should always be presumed unsafe. Those traveling on ice are encouraged to check with local law enforcement or DNR officials regarding ice conditions before heading onto unfamiliar water.
SNOWMOBILERS SHOULD avoid riding single-file across frozen water. Ice anglers should use their augers to check ice thickness periodically as they venture out. Everyone traversing on ice should wear a life jacket.
?We want everyone to enjoy the outdoor recreation opportunities Michigan has to offer,? said Richard Asher, DNR law division chief. ?But part of enjoying Michigan winters is recognizing potential dangers and taking responsible precautions. We urge everyone to make safety a top priority.?
