The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is sounding the alarm on early ice conditions, urging those heading out for winter activities to prioritize safety. According to a news release, the DNR advises against assuming any ice cover is entirely secure, underscoring the variability and unpredictability of ice strength across the state's waterbodies. Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, the DNR Off-Highway Vehicle Administrator, emphasized the inherent instability of early winter ice due to hidden currents, debris, and underground springs.
In the same statement, Holsclaw advised caution when traversing Wisconsin rivers and lakes on foot, snowmobiles, or in UTVs, stating, "No matter if you're on foot, on a snowmobile or in UTV, it's important to remember that ice is never 100 percent safe." The DNR does not actively monitor ice conditions itself, but underlines that local fishing clubs, outfitters, and bait shops are valuable resources for the latest updates on the status of the ice, and each body of water possesses its own unique conditions; some are affected by aerators, utilized throughout winter, which can lead to thin spots unseen beneath the surface.
Citing recent winters in which ATVs, UTVs, and snowmobiles fell through unstable ice—resulting in six fatalities—the department issued a renewed set of safety reminders. Officials noted that heavier machines such as UTVs can weigh as much as a car or truck, creating added danger when ice conditions are uncertain. To reduce risks, the DNR recommends keeping vehicle windows down while traveling over ice, lowering the radio volume to remain alert to warning sounds, and ensuring that all occupants have appropriate flotation devices.
According to the DNR, emphasized the need for preparation and caution, advising riders to carry a cell phone, wear proper winter clothing, and establish an emergency plan before heading out. As part of its safety message, the agency encouraged participation in a snowmobile safety education course—required under Wisconsin law for anyone at least 12 years old and born after Jan. 1, 1985, who intends to operate a snowmobile. For those who may face the dangerous scenario of breaking through the ice, officials recommend keeping ice picks and a length of rope within reach for self-rescue and calling for help immediately while remaining as calm as possible.
