MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) - The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is urging people to monitor ice conditions before going onto a frozen lake, particularly after a substantial snowfall.
“The recent arrival of new snow can hide areas of thin ice and prevent further freezing,” said chief game warden Colonel Jason Batchelder on Thursday. “We are urging all outdoor enthusiasts - people going ice fishing, cross-country skiers, hikers, and snowmobilers - to be cautious and prepared if they are going out on the ice.”
The department advises taking safety precautions such as keeping cars and trucks off the ice, leaving information about plans with someone and wearing a personal flotation device. It’s also a good idea not to fish alone, the department said.
The state also recommends residents carry hand spikes to help get out of the water if they fall through the ice, and a safety device that can be thrown to a person who has gone through the ice. Other precautions include carrying an ice spud or chisel to check ice in several places, not going on ice if it has melted away from the shore;and bringing a fully charged cell phone.
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