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Rules for ice safety
 
Look for the obvious signs of poor ice conditions

• Open water
• Large open cracks
• Ice that looks different from one area to another

 
Be familiar with the lake or river

• Know where the inlets or outlets are
• Know where natural springs are
• Areas where water is moving can dramatically affect the strength of the ice

 
Tell someone else where you are going and when you expect to be back.
 
Wear a personal flotation device to keep you at the surface in case you fall through the ice.
 
Carry ice awls to help aid in climbing out if you fall through the ice.
 
Carry a whistle to use as a distress signal in the event you are unable to get back onto the ice.
 
Always remember the strength of the ice is as dependent on the quality of the ice as it is on the thickness of the ice.
 
If there is any doubt about the quality, strength or condition of the ice just stay off.