(Undated) — As temperatures get colder, area lakes, ponds, and rivers are starting to freeze. The Minnesota D-N-R says it is one of the most dangerous times of the year when it comes to recreating on the water. There have been numerous reports of anglers out on the ice, but the D-N-R says conditions are highly variable, and falling through the ice can be deadly in just minutes. Authorities say there should be at least four inches of clear ice before walking on it. Anglers should check the ice thickness with a spud bar, auger, or other device, wear a life jacket, and have a set of ice picks with them. Also, don’t go out alone and let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
