WALKER, Minn. — In the heart of the Up North lake country, where a hazard of winter is hiking and driving onto ice-covered streams and lakes, the Cass County sheriff’s office offers these safety tips:
> Never consider any ice safe.
> Check existing ice conditions en route.
> Check with bait shops, resorts, gas stations and other anglers for conditions.
> Consider other transportation besides a motor vehicle. Possibilities: Lighter weight all-terrain vehicles or snowmobiles or go on foot.
> Do not vemture on the lake after dark.
> Always notify someone in the area and tell tehem your expected return time.
> Carry a cell phone.
> Be familiar with the lake. Carry a map.
> If you need emergency help, call 911.
> Consider a GPS unit on and off the lake.
> Avoid drinking alcohol.
> Heed warning signs but remember warning signs cannot be posted everywhere.
> Go out in lake only from a resort or public access. > Travel only on plowed roads over lakes.