Minnesota DNR urges extreme caution on late-season ice

The Minnesota DNR is asking people to exercise extreme caution amidst rapidly changing ice conditions at the end of the season. The DNR states that is some areas, specifically citing the southern half of the state, the ice-to-open water transition occurred within a matter of days.

During the weekend of March 15, DNR conservation officers and public safety partners were involved in at least three ice rescues.

“The ice in many areas has degraded significantly in recent days, bringing a quick end to what had been a good ice season,” said Nicole Biagi, DNR Enforcement ice safety coordinator. “If people still choose to go out on the ice, we urge them to have a plan in place in the event they fall through.”

Biagi offered the following advice for staying safe on late season ice:

• Spring ice might appear thick, but that does not mean that it is safe. Warm weather has weakened the ice so it cannot support as much weight as it could earlier in the year. Anyone heading out should double the DNR’s ice thickness recommendations.
• Wearing a life jacket or float coat and ice picks is the best way to survive an unexpected fall into water that’s extremely cold. Even the best swimmers are more likely to drown in cold water as it causes hyperventilation and zaps strength.
• People should go with a buddy and let others know where they’re going and when they plan to return.