Ice is forming but be careful

The ice here in Northern MA is forming but we are getting reports that the consistency is varied from lake to lake. We are hearing reports of open water to 4.5 inches of ice and this is showing you that it is very inconsistent where ever you are. This means that caution needs to be on the anglers mind at all times and if you do venture out onto the ice, take some safety items with you. Never go on the ice especially now without ice pik's, spud bar and a life jacket. All of these items are a necessity at this time of year and depending on the body of water you are going on, the ice may very in thickness. The ice pik's are used if you fall through the ice and using these will allow you to try to pull yourself out of the water. The spud bar is used to check the ice as you are walking and you hit the ice in front of you with the spud bad to see if it goes through the ice. If it goes through the ice stop walking and back up as the ice in front of you is not thick enough to support you. The life jacket will help to save your life if you break through as if you are not able to get out of the water, you will stay floating and not get trapped under the ice. With the varying ice conditions out there, staying off of the ice is the best remedy and should be taken to heart for anyone that wants to venture out there. This ice season is going to be very long this year and waiting another week or two is a good idea for most and there will be plenty of time to enjoy the activities that come along with ice. Be careful out there and the best thing is to stay off of the ice as any and all ice is truly never safe....

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