ST. PAUL, Minn. (WCCO) – Even though last weekend turned winter on like a light switch, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is warning Minnesotans that the ice is still not yet safe for most outdoor activities.

What’s more, the DNR said that the layers of new snow are acting to insulate the already treacherous, brittle ice, making it an even riskier proposition.

“We know people want to get out and enjoy the snow, but they shouldn’t put themself or anyone else in danger by going out on the ice,” Capt. Greg Salo said. He is the supervisor of DNR’s regional enforcement.

The DNR warned that not only should trucks and cars stay off the ice, but also snowmobiles.

They released a reminder chart of appropriate ice thicknesses for various winter activities:

(credit: Minnesota DNR)