(Arnolds Park)– Officials are reminding everyone to play it safe this weekend for Winter Games. Even with the extreme cold we’ve had lately, Blake Mills, a Conservation Officer with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, says the ice thickness isn’t uniform and can vary depending upon which part of a lake you’re on…
“The general rule with ice is no ice is safe ice. That’s something to keep in mind because there can be different areas that have different ice conditions and at the end of the day we just want everyone to be safe and have a good time.”
He adds there are some known areas to stay completely away from…
“There’s a lot of different characteristics out on the ice. Everything from seams to ridges so some open areas, even. If you’re not familiar with the ice it’s recommended you check in with someone who is familiar. Maybe walk out with someone who’s been on the ice before or has some better ideas on where some of those areas are. Maybe don’t go exploring off on different areas of the lake if you’re not familiar with the ice.”
Mills offers a few tips to help stay safe…
“Use the buddy system. So if you’re going out on the ice and you’ve got a friend with you, just don’t walk side by side. Have a little bit of distance in between you in the event someone does fall through. There’s some different equipment you can get. Ice cleats for your boots, your shoes. It helps you walk so there’s less chance of slipping. Ice picks. They hang around your neck. In the event you do go through they can help you self rescue out of the ice. And even just a piece of rope. In the event you do fall through or someone nearby does fall through you can throw them a piece of rope.”
Mills also reminds operators of ATV’s, side-by-sides and other off road vehicles, as well as snowmobiles, to make sure your registration is up to date and you have the proper stickers attached prior to taking them out.
Expect to see additional officers both on and off the ice this weekend keeping an eye out for impaired or drunk drivers, expired registrations and other infractions.
Those with questions regarding operation of ATV’s on roadways and various legal requirements should contact their respective city offices as ordinances vary from city to city.
