Wisconsin DNR Releases Ice Safety Guidelines

State agency provides tips for safe winter recreation on frozen lakes and rivers.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued a set of guidelines to help residents and visitors stay safe while engaging in winter activities on frozen bodies of water across the state. The guidelines cover best practices for ice thickness, proper equipment, and what to do in emergency situations.

Why it matters

With Wisconsin's many lakes and rivers, ice safety is a critical concern during the winter months. The DNR's guidelines aim to prevent injuries and fatalities by educating the public on the risks of venturing out onto frozen surfaces and how to mitigate those risks.

The details

The DNR's ice safety guidelines recommend a minimum ice thickness of at least 4 inches for activities like ice fishing and snowmobiling, and at least 5 inches for group activities. They also advise carrying ice picks, rope, and a personal flotation device, and to never go out alone. The guidelines stress the importance of checking ice conditions regularly, as thickness can vary greatly even in the same body of water.

  • The Wisconsin DNR released the ice safety guidelines on March 5, 2026.

The players

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

The state agency responsible for managing Wisconsin's natural resources, including lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water.

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The takeaway

The Wisconsin DNR's ice safety guidelines provide valuable information to help residents and visitors enjoy winter activities on the state's frozen waterways safely. By following these recommendations, people can reduce the risk of falling through the ice and potentially suffering serious injury or worse.