There’s no such thing as 100 percent safe ice.

• Always wear a life jacket or float coat on the ice (except when in a vehicle).
• Carry ice picks, rope, an ice chisel, and tape measure.
• Avoid inlets, outlets or narrows that may have current that can thin the ice.
• Check ice thickness at regular intervals; conditions can change quickly.
• Bring a cell phone or personal locator beacon.
• Don’t go out alone; let someone know about trip plans and expected return time.
• Wear proper clothing and equipment, including a life jacket or a float coat, to help you stay afloat and to help maintain body heat.
• Wear ice creepers attached to boots to prevent slipping on clear ice.
• Look for clear ice, which is generally stronger than ice with snow on it or bubbles in it.