Patches of Erie ice unsafe

1/9/2001

PORT CLINTON - Patches of ice on Lake Erie near the Bass islands aren't safe, according to the U.S. Coast Guard's Marblehead station.

High winds and warm temperatures over the weekend along with fluctuating water depths have created unsafe areas of ice, the Coast Guard reported.

People already have been traveling between the mainland and islands by foot, snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle, but it isn't safe, said S.H. Betters, master chief petty officer for the Marblehead station.

Petty Officer Adam Carron said people should use extreme caution if they are on the ice.

“We can't tell you how thick the ice should be for it to be safe because of liability reasons,” Carron said. “Instead, we try to educate people about the things they should always take with them or do to be as safe as possible.”

Carron said people should not travel alone and should take a cell phone or radio and always wear a lifejacket. The Coast Guard also recommends taking flares to signal for help and checking the weather before going out.