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Officials: Ice In Minn. Isn't Thick Enough To Be On

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Although Minnesotans are already enduring subzero temperatures this November, officials are reminding those venturing outside that the ice just isn't ready for recreation.

"While we want you to enjoy the great Minnesota outdoors, safety must be a top priority right now," Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek said.

The sheriff's office stresses caution for parents and pet owners. The majority of victims in fatal ice-related incidents are children, officials say, and pet owners have put themselves in jeopardy when trying to rescue an off-leash dog that broke through the ice.

The recommended thickness for ice is four inches for walking and small group activities. Also, that four inch rule only applies to clear ice. If you have snow on top, you'll need to double that amount.

The snow can make ice look a lot more safe than it actually is and hide any potentially dangerous spots.

Hennepin County officials said the majority of ice deaths the last few years have been children, making this the perfect time to talk to your kids about the dangers of thin ice.

WCCO-TV's Kylie Bearse headed to Wayzata Bait and Tackle for a quick lesson on ice safety, because "the best thing to do is always check with the local bait dealers."

This early in the season, checking the ice is done entirely by hand. Wayzata Bait and Tackle's Bob Sonenstaho said make sure to not be wearing any extra equipment that could weight you down.

Also, the most dangerous spots may be in your own backyard, in the holding ponds behind your houses where children sometimes go ice skating.

For more information on ice safety and recommended guidelines, check the DNR's website.

Ice Rules Minnesota DNR
(credit: Minnesota DNR)
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