The Oneida County Sheriff's Office Recreation Unit would…

The Oneida County Sheriff's Office Recreation Unit would like to remind the public of Ice Safety as the winter season begins.

Some ice thickness guidelines for new clear ice only are as follows, 4 inches for a normal adult to walk on, 6 inches for snowmobiles, 8 inches for side by sides (UTVs), 12 inches for a cars, and 16 inches for trucks. These recommendations are for non-running water.

If traveling out onto the ice remember that temperature, snow cover, currents, and springs can affect the thickness and safety of the ice. Ice thickness can vary in thickness from one area of a lake to another on the same body of water. Know the weight of the equipment you are bringing onto the ice.

When layers of snow melt and freeze on top of lake ice it creates white ice. White ice is only about 50% as strong as clear ice.

Be aware of changing weather conditions and wind direction.

Wearing a life jacket is a good idea while traveling on ice. Ice picks are also a good idea should fall through the ice they can assist in pulling you back onto the ice. These should be draped around your neck.

Always travel with a buddy and walk in single file lines on the ice.

Should you find yourself falling through the ice remember, stay calm, catch your breath, exit the water from the direction you came (that ice was holding you), and kick your legs to get your body horizontal to the ice. Kick and pull yourself back onto the ice. If you have ice picks use them to help pull yourself onto the ice. Once out, roll in the direction in which you came. Do not stand up or kneel immediately after exiting the water, wait till you're on stable ice to stand.

Hypothermia is the biggest concern once out of the water. It is important to carry dry clothes with you in a dry bag. Contact 911 immediately and seek medical attention.

Please take the time to educate children on the dangers of ice.