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The Clay County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to use caution on frozen lakes and ponds this winter, especially for ice fishing and other outdoor activities. Officials stressed that no ice is completely safe, as conditions can change quickly due to depth, currents, snow cover, or recent weather.

Authorities recommend that ice be at least 4 inches thick for walking and 5–7 inches for snowmobiles or ATVs. People should check ice thickness as they move away from shore and stay on land if unsure.

Ice rescues in Clay County rely mainly on volunteers, meaning response times may be slower than in urban areas. Falling through the ice can be life-threatening, with cold shock occurring within minutes and hypothermia setting in quickly.

Safety tips include never going alone, wearing a life jacket, carrying ice picks or a throw rope, informing someone of your plans, and avoiding moving or weak ice. Call 911 immediately if someone is in trouble, and do not attempt a rescue without proper training.