Winter is coming and the DNR is reminding Minnesotans to think twice before heading out onto the ice.
Minnesota DNR Conservation Officer Matt Paavola is traveling the state to advocate for ice safety awareness, amid multiple reports of people already walking onto the ice this year.
He says just because ice is present it doesn't mean it's solid. Prepare for the unexpected according to Paavola who adds precautions need to double when people decide to bring vehicles out on to the ice.
"With driving out, whether you're on a snowmobile or an ATV, all the same guidelines apply," says Paavola. "Check as you go when you're in that vehicle. It's a lot heavier than just walking out on foot."
He says before heading out, inquire about conditions and known hazards with experts. That includes lakes and rivers, as well as neighborhood ponds. He says traveling on ice is never 100 percent safe, and as a precaution to always bring an ice safety kit with you with things like a rope and an ice pick.
"People think ice is safe one day, and then some sort of weather event occurs and it might not be safe the next day," says Paavola. "We encourage people to check it every time you go out."