Sweetwater County Sheriff Mike Lowell is reminding people to be careful out on the ice this time of year.

The sheriff is offering the following advice:

"- First and foremost, bear in mind the tried-and-true adage that there is no such thing as safe ice. Ice conditions can fluctuate drastically over short times and distances; water levels in lakes, and especially in reservoirs like Flaming Gorge, can change. Freezing and thawing weather patterns come and go, and submerged springs in certain areas can make a big difference. Always exercise caution and never become complacent.
- Avoid ice on moving water such as the Green River. Ice that forms over moving water is usually weaker, especially where the current is stronger.
- Check ice thickness before venturing out and check thickness every 100 to 150 feet. (A cordless drill with a 5/8-inch, 5-inch long wood augur bit makes this easy.) Clear ice 4 inches thick or more is generally considered safe for an angler on foot, and though guidelines exist for appropriate ice thickness for snow machines, four-wheelers, and larger vehicles, the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office does not recommend taking motorized vehicles of any kind out onto the ice, regardless of thickness.
- Never ice fish alone.
- Wearing a PDF, (Personal Flotation Device) is highly recommended. A little more bulk won’t matter much, and a PDF might save your life if the ice gives way.
- Remember that fishing from shore ice when the lake is not frozen over from bank to bank can be particularly hazardous. "

The sheriff also advises those venturing on the ice this time of year to be equipped with ice picks or ice claws, such as those shown below.

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