City of Albany issued the following announcement on Feb. 4.
No one actually knows for sure. The strength of ice cannot be judged by its looks, thickness, temperature, age, or whether or not the ice is covered with snow. Strength is based on all of these factors, plus the depth of the water under the ice, the size of the water body, water chemistry, the current, distribution of the load on the ice, and local climate conditions. General Ice Thickness Guidelines
New and clear ice only standards:
4 inches
5-7 inches
8-12 inches
12-15 inches
Older white/snow ice standards:
Double the new and clear ice thickness guidelines when traveling on white ice.
Ways to check ice Thickness
Ice Chisel
Ice Auger
Cordless Drill
Tape Measure
Before Heading Out on the Ice
Remember the DNR does not measure ice thickness on Minnesota lakes
Your safety is your own responsibility
Check ice thickness at least every 150 feet
What If you fall through the ice the first thing to do is try not to panic.
There are steps to take so that you can be prepared.
) Do not remove your clothing. The clothing will provide warmth and flotation.
) Turn toward the direction you fell in, that is probably where the strongest ice is located.
) Place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface.
) Kick your feet, and if you have any tools such as an ice pick use it to help work your way back onto the solid ice.
) Lie flat on the ice once you are out and roll away from the hole to keep your weight spread out.
) Get to a warm, dry, and sheltered area. Get warm immediately, and if need be seek medical attention.
What if someone else falls in?
The first step is to call 911 for help. Resist the urge to run up to the edge of the hole, this would most likely result in you becoming a victim. DO NOT RISK YOUR OWN LIFE! Preach, Reach, Throw, Row, Go!
1) Preach: Shout to the victim to encourage them to fight to survive. Reassure them that help is on the way.
2) Reach: If you can safely reach the victim from shore, extend a object like a rope to the victim.
3) Throw: Toss one end of the rope that will float to the victim, and have them tie the rope around themselves.
4) Row: Find a light boat to push across the ice, get into the boat and pull the victim in over the bow.
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up