How you can tell if ice is safe to walk on

BOSTON — Ice on lakes and ponds might appear thick enough to support a person or a car, but it can be very dangerous to walk on ice that is too thin.

Experts say to never venture out onto unfamiliar waters without checking ice thickness.

Here is the thickness levels for clear or blue ice on lakes or ponds.

2 inches or less -- STAY OFF

4 inches -- Ice fishing or other activities on foot

5 inches -- Snowmobile of ATV

8 to 12 inches -- Car or small pickup truck

12 to 15 inches -- Medium truck

If a person or pet falls through the ice, immediately call for help. It typically takes two to five minutes for the cold water to start slowing physical functions. If a friend falls though, try to reach for them from shore or throw a rope, jumper cables a tree branch or another object.

Cox Media Group