minus 33 merino wool clothing, Ice Safety

How to Stay Safe on the Ice

Before going out on any frozen water—whether it’s a small pond or a larger lake—you should always check the conditions beforehand. Never assume the ice is safe. Here are some quick tips from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department to help you stay safe on the ice: 

General Ice Safety Tips

  • Do not drive vehicles onto the ice.

  • If on foot, assess ice safety using an ice chisel or auger. Check the thickness and condition as you go; ice thickness is not consistent across a body of water.

  • Though all ice is potentially dangerous, the U.S. Army Cold Regions Research & Engineering Laboratory recommends:
    Minimum of 6 inches of hard ice for foot travel, and 8–10 inches for snowmobiles or ATVs. 

  • Thick ice doesn't always mean safe ice. Warming trends can weaken ice even if it refreezes on the surface.

  • Be extra cautious near inlets, outlets, and spring holes. These areas often have dangerously thin ice.

  • Avoid shoreline ice if it’s cracked or slushy. Never go on the ice during a thaw.

  • Watch out for thin, clear, or honeycombed ice. Dark patches in snow or ice may also indicate weak spots.

  • Smaller bodies of water tend to freeze more evenly. Larger lakes and rivers are more prone to wind and currents that weaken ice.

  • Don’t gather in large groups or drive heavy vehicles onto the ice.

If you fall through the ice:

  • Don’t panic.

  • Move or swim back to where you fell in—the ice was solid there.

  • Lay your arms on the unbroken ice and kick hard to help lift your body.

  • Carry ice picks around your neck or in an accessible pocket to pull yourself out.

  • Once out, roll away from the hole to more solid ice.

Snowmobiler Safety

Ice safety is especially important for snowmobilers. Don’t assume a trail is safe just because it exists. Always ask about current trail conditions at local snowmobile clubs or sporting goods shops.

Other Preparation Tips

  • Dress in layers to regulate your temperature and stay warm.

  • Add and remove layers as needed. Always bring extra clothing.

  • Wear a hat or face mask—you lose most of your body heat through your head.

  • A waterproof/windproof outer layer helps keep out the elements.

  • Wool, silk, and fleece are ideal insulating layers because they retain heat even when wet.

  • Also bring gloves or mittens, sunglasses, insulated waterproof boots, extra clothing, food, and hot drinks.


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