Game and Parks Suggests Tips for Safety on Ice

December 30, 2011 News No Comments

LINCOLN, Neb. – Stay safe on the ice this winter while enjoying a day of ice fishing. Follow these Nebraska Game and Parks Commission tips for ice safety:

— There should be at least 4 inches of clear, solid ice before an angler ventures onto a frozen lake or pond.

— Wear a life jacket.

— Commercial or homemade ice picks should be worn around your neck in case you fall through and need something to grip the ice and pull yourself out.

— Use an ice chisel or spud bar to check ice thickness every step of the way.

— Keep a long rope with you so someone can help rescue you if you break through the ice.

— Avoid alcoholic beverages. These affect your judgment and increase your chances for hypothermia.

For more on ice safety, read the following article in the December issue of NEBRASKAland Magazine: http://outdoornebraska.ne.gov/Fishing/pdfs/ice%20safety.pdf. To view a Game and Parks YouTube video on ice safety, visit http://outdoornebraska.ne.gov/fishing/guides/icefishing/ifrescue.asp.