Ice fishing: five ways to stay safe

Ice fishing is a fantastic way to enjoy winter’s natural beauty in the company of friends and family. However, venturing out onto a frozen lake isn’t without its perils. Remain safe while reeling in your next big catch by doing these five things:

1. Closely inspect the ice. Know that clear blue ice is the strongest, opaque white ice is only half as strong (or twice as fragile) and dull gray ice is very fragile (and therefore extremely unsafe for fishing).

2. Measure ice thickness. If you’re fishing on a waterway or off the coast (in other words, anywhere besides a lake or pond) check the ice in several spots, as currents and tides result in uneven ice formations. A minimum thickness of four inches is recommended if the ice is blue and 8 to 12 inches if the ice is snowy.

3. Fish in a group. Never head out alone on the ice and make sure that everyone you’re with is familiar with emergency protocols. Always be aware of where all members of your group are located.

4. Exercise caution. Don’t go out on the ice when it’s dark out, avoid drinking alcohol and be mindful that even thick ice isn’t 100 percent safe.

5. Bring the right equipment. The following items are indispensible for ensuring your safety and comfort while out on the ice: a lifejacket, a warm snowsuit, spare clothes, a first aid kit, a flashlight, waterproof matches, a survival blanket, hot drinks and ice picks.