Castlewood, South Dakota

... Minnesota winter hazard awareness week... day 2... outdoor
winter safety...

The winter months can pose many hazards to those who choose to
venture outdoors. With many outdoor activities available in
Minnesota and during the winter season... you should be aware of
how to keep yourself safe from the cold... ice and snow.

Basic safety tips...
avoid overexertion, including when shoveling snow.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Keep yourself and your clothes dry.
Watch for frostbite... and seek medical attention immediately if
symptoms are present.

What to wear...
dress warmly in loose-fitting... layered... lightweight clothing.
Wear a hat. Most body heat is lost through the top of your head.
Wear mittens that are tight at the wrist.
Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf.

Ice safety...
remember that there is no such thing as 100 percent safe ice on a
Frozen Lake or pond.
Guidelines for minimum ice thickness... 4 inches for walking and
ice fishing... 5 inches for snowmobiling... 8 to 12 inches for a
car or small pickup... 12 to 15 inches for a medium-sized truck.
Keep children away from ice-covered ponds and streams.

Snowmobile safety...
take a snowmobile course. Ask your snowmobile dealer to find a
class near you.
Avoid drugs or alcohol as many snowmobile deaths are related to
them.
Obey the posted speed limit on snowmobile trails.

The above recommendations are based on information courtesy of
the Minnesota department of natural resources. Please contact the
following for further information...

Minnesota dnr information center
651-296-6157 or 888-minndnr