by Jason Pallotta, Assistent Chief, Inlet Fire Dept.
Jason Pallotta, Inlet Fire Department Assistant Chief, is answering the question, When is it safe to go out on the ice?, which is particularly worth considering given this winter’s fluctuating temperatures.
There is no sure answer to the question as you can’t judge the ice’s strength simply by its appearance, age, thickness, temperatue or whether or not the ice is covered by snow.
Strength is based on all these factors.
Keep in mind that there is NO SUCH THING as 100 percent safe ice.
Here are some general guidelines for New Clear Ice: 2” or less – stay off ice; 4” for ice fishing and other activities on foot; 6” for snowmobiles or ATVs; 8” to 12” for cars and small pickup trucks; about 12” to 15” for medium size trucks.Remember these guidelines are for New Clear Ice.
It is recommended that for White Ice or Snow Ice, these ice depths should be doubled as this kind of ice is only half as strong as clear ice.
Although calling a local business or information office is a way of finding out ice thickness, it is a good idea to check it for yourself.
It is important to understand that ice thickness can vary greatly over a short distance. It is recommended to check the ice every 150 feet, especially early in the season.
If parking a vehicle on the ice, you should be 50 feet away from another vehicle and move the vehicle every two hours to prevent sinking.
It is also a good idea to drill a small hole next to the vehicle. If water starts to overflow the top of the hole, it’s time to move.
Remember these safety tips when you venture out on the ice.
And always remember that Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors save lives!
