How To Have Fun And Be Safe On West Michigan Ice This Winter

Winter doesn't officially arrive in West Michigan until Sunday, December 21, but don't tell Mother Nature that.

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We've already received some heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.

As the weather continues to get colder, ice on ponds and lakes will start to freeze, and people are going to want to head out onto that ice for fun activities such as ice skating, hockey, and ice fishing.

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Now before anyone steps foot on the ice, they need to make sure it's safe.

How Thick Does Ice Need To Be

If you're planning on doing some of the basic winter activities such as ice skating, hockey, and ice fishing the ice needs to be at least 4 inches.

If you are someone that wants to take their ATV or snowmobile on the ice it needs to be at least 5 to 7 inches.

And I don't know anyone in their right mind that would actually do this, but if you wanted to bring your car or truck onto the ice it better be at least 8 to 12 inches.

Personally, the ice could be 2 feet thick, and I still never dream of taking a car or truck onto it. It's just too dangerous.

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No matter what you're planning to do on the ice it's important to be safe.

Here are a couple of things you should do for your safety.

Test the ice thickness: Use an ice chisel, auger, or drill every 150 feet or so as you move. Never guess the thickness based on appearance.

Go with a Buddy: Never venture out alone, and keep several feet apart to distribute the weight.

You can have fun on the ice this winter, just make sure you're safe doing so.