A cold snap around Thanksgiving means some lakes and ponds across Minnesota are beginning to freeze. However, this ice isn’t safe to walk on and the water underneath is dangerously cold.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds everyone to be extremely cautious around the water and, with children home for Thanksgiving break, to talk with them about the risks of cold water and ice.

While ice is never 100% safe, ice in the early stages of formation is particularly dangerous. Falls through the ice or into open water at this time of year can turn tragic quickly, and each year result in serious injuries or deaths.

Parents and guardians need to be especially vigilant about watching kids and ensuring children’s innate curiosity about the water and ice doesn’t put them at risk.

Anyone who recreates on the ice should wait until there’s at least 4 inches of new, clear ice before walking out onto it. Other tips for staying safe around cold water and on the ice include:

•  Wearing a foam life jacket or flotation suit.

•  Not going out alone—and letting someone know about trip plans and expected return time.

•  Carrying ice picks, rope, an ice chisel and tape measure.

•  Checking ice thickness at regular intervals; conditions can change quickly.

•  Bringing a cell phone or personal locator beacon.

•  Inquiring about conditions and known hazards with local experts before heading out.

For more information about staying safe on the ice, including thickness recommendations for various types of activities, see the DNR’s ice safety page (mndnr.gov/icesafety). For more information about surviving a fall into cold water, see the cold water dangers page (mndnr.gov/coldwater).