Cold temperatures in the last week have been enough to cover many area lakes

with a layer of ice which means ice fishermen will start heading out. The

Department of Natural Resources is urging caution on the newly frozen surfaces.

Cutting test holes near shore is an important safety measure, so is using the

buddy system. Ice fishers also want to take along gear like a floatation coat or

life jacket, ice cleats to get around easily, as well as ice picks and plenty of rope

in case the worst should happen. With a buddy, they can hopefully get you

pulled out or help to pull them out."

The DNR recommends five inches for snowmobiling and ATV's. Conservation

officers also recommend you search online for safety videos. Looking up

"survival in the ice" can be a useful tool for anyone planning on ice fishing.