Ice safety.

Winter is one of the best times to be out on the lake but always exercise caution. Know the limits using the chart below from NYS Homeland Security and Emergency Services.

SAFE ICE

• Strong ice is clear with a bluish tint. 

• There should be a minimum of four inches of clear ice to support an average person's weight.

• Ice does not freeze uniformly. It may be a foot thick in one location and an inch or two only a few feet away. Always check conditions when you move on the ice.

UNSAFE ICE

• Weak ice appears milky and porous. DO NOT venture out on the ice.

• Ice covered by snow will likely be thinner and weaker. It acts like an insulating blanket and slows the freezing process. A recent snowfall also can warm and melt existing ice.

• Stay away from slushy ice, it is only half as strong as clear ice and indicates ice is no longer freezing from the bottom.

• Ice may thaw during the day due to warm temperatures and refreeze at night, resulting in weak, spongy, or honeycomb-like ice.