Spring thaw means thin ice Published March 10, 2010 By Rod Krause 5th Bomb Wing Ground Safety MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The old saying, "You're on thin ice" usually means one is probably speaking of a subject matter best left alone. The reason behind the saying is obvious -- those who attempt to walk on thin ice are quite likely to be swimming in short order. Every year, people head out onto frozen lakes in search of that last good fishing spot and end up at the bottom of the lake. There always seems to be that one guy who is oblivious to the rapidly approaching spring weather. There is no guaranteed "safe" thickness of ice. However, there are general ice thickness guidelines that will give a good approximation. Rivers and river outlets, which flow into lakes, are dangerous areas all throughout the winter months. Currents can erode ice, even when there are no indications of weakening on the surface. The only sure way to know how thick the ice is would be to drill test holes along the intended path. North Dakota regulations require ice fishing houses and shelters to be removed from lakes no later than March 15. However, this does not guarantee safe ice until that last weekend. If it has been a warm winter, those dates may be well past a safe time to go out on the ice with vehicles or recreational equipment. However, one cannot count on "the other guy "or a government agency for protection when they venture out on the ice. It is the individual's responsibility to verify the ice conditions and be constantly aware of their surroundings. In closing, here are a few tips if for those who venture out onto ice during the spring thaw: · Use caution near bridges and trestles, as the structures conduct heat into the water, causing ice near these areas to be more dangerous. This is also true for areas where the water has a strong current running through it. · Be watchful when traveling on the ice at night or in fog. Reduced visibility increases your chances of driving into open water or onto weak ice. This is a frequent cause of ATV and snowmobile related crashes. · Use the buddy system. A friend may be able to rescue or go for help if one gets into difficulty. Before leaving home, a person should tell someone where he is going and what time he expects to return. · Always wear a floatation suit or a lifejacket. Wearing a personal flotation device increases ones chance of survival if he should go through the ice. · Take safety equipment. Ice picks, a rope and a cell phone can make a big difference. · Avoid alcohol. Alcohol impairs ones judgment, coordination, and reaction time and speeds up hypothermia.