Wardens: No safe ice conditions in state

AUGUSTA – The Maine Warden Service urges the public not to venture onto any ice that may be covering Maine’s waterways.

In some parts of the state, Maine’s lakes and ponds may appear to be frozen, but safe ice conditions cannot be assumed even though temperatures have been below freezing in recent days and at night. Also, any snow covering thin layers of ice acts as insulation and slows the freezing process.

“There are no safe ice conditions anywhere in the state right now. Period,” said Col. Joel Wilkinson, chief warden of the Maine Warden Service.

As the temperatures continue to fall in the coming weeks and the ice continues to thicken, the Maine Warden Service recommends that people check the thickness of any ice before venturing out for any activity on frozen water.

If you must go on the ice this winter, the Maine Warden Service offers these tips for safety:

. Never guess the thickness of ice. Check the ice in several different places using an auger or some other means to make a test hole and determine the thickness. Make several holes, beginning at the shore and continuing as you go out.

. Check the ice with a partner, so if something does happen, someone is there to help you. If you are alone, wear a lifejacket.

. If ice at the shoreline is cracked or squishy, stay off it. Watch out for thin, clear or honeycombed ice. Dark snow and dark ice are other signs of weak spots.

. Avoid areas with currents, around bridges, and pressure ridges. Wind and currents can break ice.

. Parents should alert children of unsafe ice in their areas and make sure they stay off the ice. If they insist on using their new skates, suggest an indoor skating rink.

If you break through the ice, remember:

. Don’t panic.

. Don’t try to climb out immediately; you will probably break the ice again. Reach for solid ice.

. Lay both arms on the unbroken ice and kick hard. This will help lift your body onto the ice. Once on the ice, roll, don’t walk, to safety.