Ice Thickness Safety Guide

As the weather gets colder and colder, the many lakes throughout the state begin to ice over, and ice fishers, snowmobiles, and skaters begin their seasonal activities.

BUT, many times, those activities begin too early and without checking the true ice thickness first! Each year in Michigan, there are dozens of ice rescues, especially early on in the season in December and January.

Please remember to check the thickness of your ice before walking, skating, or riding on it! If it's less than 3 inches, stay off! If it's less than 6 inches, don't drive or ride on it!

Remember, ice and ice shelves on Lake Michigan are NEVER safe! Never walk out onto the ice at our Lake Michigan beaches!