Environment DEC
From the February 2007 issue
DEC Urges People to Use Caution on the Ice
DEC reminds snowmobilers and individuals participating in various outdoor recreational activities this winter to be cautious about traveling on frozen water bodies. Snowmobilers, ice skaters, those who ice fish, and all other recreationists should pay close attention to ice and weather conditions and avoid going on ice near or around moving water.
Mild Periods Have Caused Problems
Due to the mild weather this winter, ice on New York's waters is not as strong as it has been in the past for this time of year and can be dangerously weak in some areas. It is recommended that everyone carefully research and monitor ice conditions in any area where they plan to fish, ride or walk, and avoid waters where moving water can be seen throughout the state.
The ice thickness should measure at least three inches for walking, and six inches for operating a snowmobile - photo courtesy of Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation
Due to the alternating periods of mild and cold weather, ice on many of New York's waters has not been given the opportunity to strengthen as it would in a typical winter that has longer, more sustained periods of freezing weather. This has left ice thinner on many of the state's larger waterways. Ice conditions in protected bays or shorelines may be considerably thicker than on open or exposed areas, or areas of moving water.
Thoroughly Check Ice Conditions!
Winter recreationists, particularly snowmobilers and those who ice fish, should thoroughly check ice conditions before entering onto the surface of any body of water. DEC cautions that the presence of snowmobile tracks or footprints on the ice should not be taken as evidence of safe ice conditions. Individuals are strongly encouraged to check ice conditions for themselves and avoid situations that appear to present even a remote risk.
As a rule, there should be at least 2-3 inches of good, clear ice for it to be safe to walk on and at least 6 inches to safely operate a snowmobile. DEC strongly recommends contacting a local sportsmen's club, or police or fire/rescue organization before venturing out onto any ice.
