Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office has a message for anyone planning some winter water fun: There is no such thing as safe ice. “Water levels in reservoirs like Flaming Gorge change constantly,” shares the Sheriff’s announcement. “Add to that subtle weather shifts affecting wind, freezing and thawing patterns, and the reality is that ice conditions can fluctuate drastically over short times and distances. Please be aware of recent weather conditions before going out. Scout the area you intend to fish, looking for overflow, wet areas and open water. Avoid pressure ridges, fissure and large emerging cracks in the ice. Wear a life-jacket or personal flotation device, carry an ice pick, and wear ice cleats on bare ice. Avoid taking any vehicles, snowmobiles or ATVs onto the ice. Packing extra clothes and hot liquids may also help prevent hypothermia in the event of accidentally falling into frigid water. You should not fish alone, and always let friends or family know where you are going.” To be safe, clear ice should be at least 4 inches thick and snow ice should be double that. Also, check the thickness of the ice every 100 to 150 feet.
