Winter on Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, is a special time for outdoor enthusiasts. As the lake freezes over and ice fishing season kicks off, anglers set up their fishing shanties across the ice to enjoy a peaceful day--or weekend--on the water. But as serene as it may seem, ice fishing can pose hidden dangers, especially when visibility drops due to fading daylight or snowstorms. That’s why Indiana law requires reflectors to be mounted on all sides of portable and permanent ice fishing shanties--a regulation designed with safety in mind.

The Importance of Reflectors
Snowmobiles, ATVs, and other recreational vehicles are frequently used on Simonton Lake during the winter months. These vehicles often travel at moderate speeds and can cover large stretches of the frozen lake quickly. When snow is falling or visibility is low at dusk or dawn, dark-colored or low-profile ice shanties become difficult to spot--until it’s too late.

Installing reflectors on all four sides of a shanty ensures that it is clearly visible from any direction, giving snowmobilers time to slow down or steer clear. Reflectors act just like those found on bicycles or trailers--they catch the light from a snowmobile’s headlamp and shine brightly, alerting the driver to the presence of an obstacle on the ice.

Legal Requirements in Indiana
According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), any structure placed on the ice--including fishing shanties--must have reflectors on all sides, visible from at least 100 feet away. This rule applies to both temporary (portable) and permanent shelters, regardless of whether they’re occupied or not.
Failure to comply with this law can result in fines and removal of the structure by authorities. More importantly, ignoring this rule puts everyone on the ice at risk--anglers, snowmobilers, and pedestrians alike.

Tips for Proper Reflector Use

• Use high-quality reflectors designed for outdoor use. These can be found at most hardware or sporting goods stores.
• Mount reflectors at least 12 inches above the ice surface to ensure visibility, even in snowy conditions.
• Check regularly that reflectors are not covered by snow or ice buildup.
• For added visibility, consider using battery-powered LED lights or reflective tape in combination with traditional reflectors.

Community Safety First
Simonton Lake is a tight-knit community where neighbors look out for one another. Ensuring your ice shanty is properly marked with reflectors is a small step that makes a big difference in preventing accidents and keeping winter recreation safe for everyone.

Whether you're a seasoned ice angler or new to the sport, respecting these safety guidelines is part of being a responsible member of the Simonton Lake community. Before you drill your first hole, make sure your shelter is as visible as it is cozy--and help protect lives on the ice.

Ice fishing is a time-honored winter tradition on Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana. As temperatures drop and the lake freezes over, locals and visitors alike bundle up, set up ice shanties, and drill their way through the ice for a relaxing day of fishing. However, for all the fun and recreation that comes with ice fishing, it's important to remember that Indiana has specific laws designed to keep anglers--and others on the ice--safe.

One such regulation that often surprises new ice anglers is Indiana’s law that limits the diameter of ice fishing holes to no more than 12 inches. This seemingly small rule plays a big role in maintaining safety on frozen lakes like Simonton.

Why the 12-Inch Limit Exists
The 12-inch hole diameter limit is enforced by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as a public safety measure. Larger holes in the ice can become serious hazards for snowmobilers, ice skaters, and even other ice anglers walking on the frozen surface. A person or pet stepping into a large, unexpected hole could easily suffer injury--or worse.

By limiting the size of the hole, the law minimizes the risk of accidents while still allowing enough room for effective ice fishing. For most species found in Simonton Lake--like bluegill, perch, and crappie--a 6 to 8-inch hole is often more than sufficient. Even for larger species such as northern pike or bass, a 10- to 12-inch hole is usually adequate to safely pull in your catch.

Consequences of Non-Compliance
Violating Indiana’s ice fishing regulations can lead to fines, and in some cases, confiscation of equipment. Conservation officers regularly patrol popular fishing spots like Simonton Lake during peak ice fishing months to ensure compliance with state laws. Being caught with an illegally large hole could not only ruin your day of fishing but also cost you money.

Additionally, exceeding the legal hole size could expose you to civil liability if someone were to get injured as a result of your oversized opening in the ice.

Best Practices for Drilling Safe and Legal Holes

• Measure your auger: Most manual and powered augers are designed for 6-, 8-, or 10-inch holes. Make sure the one you're using complies with Indiana’s law.
• Avoid overlapping holes: Drilling two holes too close together may create a larger, irregularly shaped hole that violates the law and poses a greater risk of someone falling in.
• Mark your fishing area: Use bright flags or cones if you leave your hole unattended, especially if it’s in a high-traffic area on the lake.
• Keep an eye on your surroundings: If fishing in a group, spread out to avoid weakening the ice or creating a cluster of holes that could collapse.

Simonton Lake is one of Elkhart’s finest winter recreation spots, but with great fun comes great responsibility. Following Indiana’s 12-inch hole size regulation is not only a matter of legal compliance--it’s a matter of community safety. So before you head out with your auger and bait, make sure you’re drilling smart, staying safe, and keeping Simonton Lake a secure place for everyone to enjoy.

When winter settles in and Simonton Lake freezes over, it can be tempting to treat the icy surface like a solid extension of land. However, not all ice is created equal—and understanding the safety requirements for ice thickness is crucial, especially when it comes to vehicles. If you’re planning to drive a medium-weight truck onto the ice, it’s essential to know that you need at least 10 inches of clear, solid ice to support that level of weight safely.

Simonton Lake, located in Elkhart, Indiana, is a popular destination for winter activities like ice fishing, snowmobiling, and even ice driving. But while the scenic lake may appear frozen solid during colder months, ice thickness can vary dramatically across different areas due to a range of environmental factors—such as water currents, springs, snow cover, and nearby aerators.

According to safety guidelines from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the Minnesota DNR (which is often cited as a national authority on ice safety), clear, blue or black ice is the strongest. For example:

• 4 inches is generally safe for foot traffic and ice fishing.
• 5–7 inches can support snowmobiles or ATVs.
• 8–12 inches is required for small cars or light trucks.
• 10–12 inches or more is needed for medium-weight trucks.

Trying to drive a medium-weight truck—typically weighing between 6,000 and 10,000 pounds—on anything less than 10 inches of solid ice can be extremely dangerous. Ice does not fail gradually like many materials; it can give way suddenly and catastrophically, risking lives and vehicles.

It's also important to note that ice thickness is never uniform across a lake. Shaded areas, places near docks or boat ramps, and regions over flowing water or underwater springs may be much thinner—even if the majority of the lake appears safe. Snow cover can insulate and weaken ice, while currents under the surface may erode it from below.

Before driving a truck on Simonton Lake in winter, make sure to:

• Check current ice thickness in multiple locations using an auger or cordless drill.
• Consult local ice reports or ask neighbors and anglers who have recently been on the ice.
• Avoid areas near aerators, bridges, or inlets where ice is typically thinner and less stable.
• Never assume last week’s conditions still apply—ice can weaken quickly due to shifting weather patterns.

Safety on frozen lakes like Simonton Lake begins with preparation and respect for nature’s unpredictability. When in doubt, don’t drive out. No truck is worth the risk of falling through.  By following proper guidelines and waiting until ice reaches a minimum of 10 inches, you can safely enjoy winter activities while minimizing danger to yourself and others.

Winter on Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, brings a variety of seasonal activities—from ice fishing and snowmobiling to scenic drives around the frozen shoreline. However, one of the most serious safety concerns during this time is the assumption that all ice is strong enough to support heavy loads like vehicles. The reality is that ice must be at least 8 inches thick to safely support the weight of a car or light truck—and even then, conditions must be ideal.

Understanding Ice Thickness and Safety
Ice strength depends on more than just how cold the air feels. Several factors come into play, such as recent weather patterns, snow cover, currents, water depth, and whether the lake has seen any human activity (like ice drilling or plowing). Black (clear) ice is much stronger than white or opaque ice, which forms during periods of melting and refreezing. Even if one area of Simonton Lake measures 8 inches thick, another section could be far thinner due to variable conditions.  That’s why the guideline of 8 inches of solid, clear ice is considered the minimum for supporting the weight of a small vehicle. Trying to drive on anything less is extremely risky and can result in not just vehicle damage, but potentially fatal accidents.

Risks of Premature Ice Driving
Falling through thin ice with a car or truck isn’t just dangerous—it can be deadly. Vehicle weight significantly increases the stress on the ice, and even a small misjudgment can cause the surface to crack or collapse. Recovery of a sunken vehicle is expensive, and environmental damage from fuel and oil leaks is another serious concern for the health of Simonton Lake.

Tips for Staying Safe

• Check the thickness: Always drill test holes and measure the ice thickness with an auger before venturing onto the lake with a vehicle.
• Spread the weight: If you must drive on the ice, go slowly and keep windows open. Don’t stop your car or make sharp turns.
• Know your vehicle’s weight: A small sedan may weigh 3,000–4,000 lbs, while a light pickup truck can easily exceed 5,000 lbs. The heavier the load, the thicker the ice must be.
• Avoid pressure ridges, cracks, or dark spots: These are weak points in the ice and can give way even if the surrounding ice appears solid.
• Never drive at night or in low visibility conditions: If you can’t see hazards, you can’t avoid them.

Simonton Lake is a beautiful winter destination, but ice safety is non-negotiable. 8 inches of clear, solid ice is the minimum requirement for driving a car or light truck onto the frozen lake. When in doubt, stay off the ice with your vehicle and use safer, more appropriate methods to enjoy the winter landscape. Always respect the power of nature—especially when it’s frozen.

Winter transforms Simonton Lake into a frozen playground, and for many residents and visitors in Elkhart, Indiana, snowmobiling across the ice is one of the most thrilling seasonal activities. However, with great adventure comes great responsibility—and one of the most important safety rules is to ensure the ice is at least 5 inches thick before taking your snowmobile out on the lake.

Ice Thickness and Safety Standards
According to guidelines from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and other outdoor safety experts, 5 inches of clear, solid ice is the minimum recommended thickness to safely support the weight of a snowmobile and its rider. Ice that is thinner than this threshold significantly increases the risk of cracking or breaking under the machine's weight, potentially resulting in a dangerous or even life-threatening situation.
Keep in mind that not all ice forms uniformly. While one area of Simonton Lake may appear solid and safe, another section—particularly near docks, springs, aerators, or flowing water—may be far thinner and less stable.

Understanding Ice Types
Clear, blue or black ice is the strongest and forms when temperatures drop consistently below freezing. On the other hand, white or opaque ice—often the result of snow refreezing—contains air bubbles and is generally much weaker. For snowmobiling, only clear ice at 5 inches or thicker should be considered safe.
Never assume that cloudy, white, or slushy ice can hold a snowmobile, even if it appears thick. It’s also important to avoid pressure ridges or areas where the ice has been recently disturbed, as these zones are prone to weakness.

How to Measure Ice Thickness
Before hitting the throttle, it’s essential to drill test holes and check the ice thickness using a tape measure or ice chisel. Take measurements in multiple spots, especially in the areas you plan to ride. Don’t just rely on reports from others—conditions can change rapidly, and it’s always best to verify for yourself.
For added safety, wear a life jacket or floatation suit, carry ice picks, and never snowmobile alone. Let someone know your plans and expected return time.

Simonton Lake: A Winter Gem Worth Protecting
Simonton Lake is a cherished natural resource in Elkhart County, and the community takes great pride in keeping it safe and enjoyable year-round. Snowmobiling is a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy the lake during the colder months, but safety should always come first.

Following ice thickness guidelines and understanding the risks of thin or uneven ice helps ensure not only your own safety but also the wellbeing of others who share the lake with you. Stay informed, be prepared, and ride responsibly.
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Remember: 5 inches is the minimum—more is always better. When in doubt, stay off the ice until it’s safe. Your adventure can wait, but your life is priceless.

Simonton Lake, nestled in Elkhart, Indiana, transforms into a serene winter destination as temperatures drop and the surface begins to freeze. For many local residents and visitors, one of the most anticipated cold-weather activities is ice fishing. But before drilling that first hole and setting up your shanty, it’s essential to understand that ice thickness is critical to safety — and the golden rule for anglers is this: you need at least 4 inches of solid ice before venturing out on foot to fish.

Why 4 Inches Matters
The 4-inch guideline isn’t just a random number; it’s a standard endorsed by safety experts and conservation agencies. When ice reaches 4 inches of clear, solid, blue ice, it is typically strong enough to support the weight of a person walking. Anything less than that can be extremely risky, as ice thickness can vary depending on a variety of factors such as temperature fluctuations, snow cover, wind, and water currents.

Ice less than 4 inches thick should always be avoided for any activity. At 2 inches or less, ice is considered unsafe and likely won’t support a person’s weight. Between 2 and 4 inches, the ice may hold briefly, but is unreliable and prone to cracking — a situation that could quickly lead to an emergency.

Knowing What to Look For
When checking the ice on Simonton Lake, always use an ice auger, spud bar, or cordless drill with a long bit to test thickness near the shore and further out. Be aware that ice does not always freeze uniformly across the lake. Areas near inlets, springs, or moving water may be weaker, even if the majority of the lake seems solid.

Avoid ice that appears white, milky, or slushy. Clear, blueish ice is the strongest, while snow-covered or refrozen slush ice is weaker and more unpredictable.

Safety Tips Before Heading Out

• Never go alone. Always ice fish with a buddy and tell someone where you’ll be.
• Bring safety gear. Wear a life jacket or floatation suit, and carry ice picks around your neck in case you fall in.
• Check the weather. Unseasonably warm days can rapidly thin out ice.
• Have a rope. A throw rope or rescue device can be a lifesaver in emergencies.
• Use a sled, not a vehicle. ATVs and snowmobiles require 5–7 inches of ice at minimum, and cars or trucks require much more — they are not recommended unless conditions are thoroughly verified.

Enjoying the Ice ResponsiblySimonton Lake offers excellent opportunities for winter fun, but safety must come first. Sticking to the 4-inch rule helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the ice. With the right precautions, you can enjoy hours of peaceful fishing surrounded by the lake’s frozen beauty — all while staying safe and warm.

Remember: When in doubt, don’t go out. Ice safety is always the first catch of the day.

Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, offers a beautiful setting for winter activities like ice fishing, skating, and snowmobiling. However, ice safety is crucial, and knowing when it’s safe to venture onto the ice can mean the difference between a fun outing and a dangerous situation. One of the most important rules for winter safety on the lake is to stay off ice that is only 1 inch thick. Here’s why this is a serious risk and how you can stay safe.

The Dangers of 1-Inch Ice Thickness
Experts recommend that ice should be at least 4 inches thick before it can safely support an individual on foot. Ice that is only 1 inch thick is far too weak to hold any weight, making it extremely dangerous to walk on. Here’s why:

1. It Cannot Support Weight – Ice that is 1 inch thick is not strong enough to hold a person’s body weight, let alone any additional gear. The moment you step onto such thin ice, it will likely crack and break immediately.
2. Rapid Ice Breakage – Ice does not break evenly, meaning you could fall through unexpectedly. Once a weak section gives way, you may have no time to react, putting you at serious risk of hypothermia and drowning.
3. Cold Water Shock – Falling into freezing water causes cold water shock, which can immediately impact your breathing and motor skills. Within seconds, your body will struggle to function, making it difficult to climb out or call for help.
4. Difficult Rescue – If you fall through 1-inch ice, rescue efforts become incredibly difficult. Thin ice cannot support rescuers, making it harder for them to reach you without breaking more ice. This increases the risk for both the victim and those trying to help.

How to Stay Safe on the Ice
To ensure safety during winter activities on Simonton Lake, follow these essential ice safety tips:

1. Know the Safe Ice Thickness Guidelines

• Under 2 inches: Too dangerous for any activity – stay off completely.
• 4 inches: Generally safe for walking and ice fishing.
• 5-7 inches: Suitable for small ATVs and snowmobiles.
• 8-12 inches: Required for small cars or light trucks.

2. Test the Ice Thickness
Before stepping onto the ice, always use an ice auger, ice chisel, or cordless drill to check the thickness. Do this at multiple locations to ensure the ice is consistent across the lake.

3. Look for Signs of Weak Ice
Avoid areas with flowing water, cracks, or slush, as these indicate weaker ice. Be cautious around shorelines, docks, and places with aerators or springs, as these areas tend to have thinner ice.

4. Never Go Alone
Always go with a partner and carry safety gear, including ice picks, a rope, and a life jacket. In case of an emergency, having someone there can be life-saving.

Ice that is only 1 inch thick is not safe for any activity. Venturing onto it can result in serious injury or even death. By understanding ice thickness guidelines, checking conditions, and practicing safe habits, you can enjoy winter on Simonton Lake while staying out of harm’s way. Always prioritize safety and never take risks with thin ice.

Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, is a popular destination for outdoor winter activities like ice fishing, skating, and snowmobiling. However, when the lake freezes over, it's important to remember that not all ice is equally strong or safe. Two key factors that can create dangerous weak spots in the ice are underground springs and wind. These natural forces can make seemingly solid ice unstable, posing a serious risk to anyone venturing out onto the frozen lake.

How Underground Springs Affect Ice Strength
Simonton Lake, like many other lakes in the region, has natural underground springs that bring water up from beneath the surface. These springs continuously move water, preventing the lake from freezing uniformly.
Here’s how underground springs weaken the ice:

• Constant Water Movement: Since the water from underground springs is in motion, it disrupts the freezing process. Ice in these areas may be thinner and more fragile compared to other parts of the lake.
• Slightly Warmer Water: The water from underground springs can be a few degrees warmer than the surrounding lake water. Even a slight increase in temperature can slow down ice formation and weaken the ice structure over time.
• Hidden Weak Spots: The danger with spring-fed areas is that they aren't always visible. While one part of the lake may have thick, solid ice, areas above underground springs may only have a thin layer of ice, creating hazardous conditions for unsuspecting visitors.

How Wind Weakens Ice on Simonton Lake
Wind is another natural factor that affects the ice conditions on Simonton Lake. While strong winds can help freeze the lake faster in the early winter months, they can also weaken the ice in several ways:

• Ice Expansion and Cracks: Wind causes the water to move before it freezes completely, leading to uneven ice formation. This can create stress cracks, making the ice more fragile in certain areas.
• Snow Drifts and Insulation: When strong winds blow across the lake, they can create large snowdrifts. Snow acts as an insulator, preventing the ice underneath from freezing as thick as surrounding areas. This results in weak, hidden pockets of ice that may not support heavy weight.
• Open Water and Refreezing: If the wind is strong enough, it can keep certain parts of the lake from freezing altogether. Later in the season, when these open water areas do freeze over, they often form thin, weak ice that isn’t safe to walk or drive on.

Safety Tips for Ice Activities on Simonton Lake

1. Check Ice Thickness Regularly – Ice should be at least 4 inches thick for walking and fishing, and 8-12 inches for snowmobiles or small vehicles.
2. Be Aware of Local Conditions – Talk to experienced ice anglers and residents who know where underground springs and wind-exposed areas might be.
3. Watch for Cracks and Color Changes – Weak ice often appears darker, slushy, or cracked.
4. Never Go Alone – Always have a buddy and carry ice safety tools like ice picks and a rope.

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By understanding the impact of underground springs and wind, visitors to Simonton Lake can stay safe and prepared while enjoying winter activities.

Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, is a beautiful body of water enjoyed by residents and visitors year-round. However, during the winter months, ice safety becomes a significant concern, especially in areas where aerators are in use. While the lake may appear frozen, ice thickness can vary drastically near aerators, making these spots potentially dangerous for ice fishing, skating, or other winter activities.

What Is a Lake Aerator?
A lake aerator is a system designed to improve water quality and oxygen levels by circulating water. These systems prevent stagnation, reducing the risk of fish kills and promoting a healthier ecosystem. During the winter, aerators help keep sections of the lake from freezing solid, which benefits fish populations. However, this process also creates inconsistencies in ice thickness, posing risks for those venturing onto the frozen surface.

Why Ice Thickness Varies Near Aerators
While the rest of Simonton Lake may have uniformly thick and stable ice, aerated areas experience continuous water movement, preventing the ice from forming as consistently. Some key reasons for uneven ice thickness near aerators include:

1. Constant Water Circulation
Aerators push water toward the surface, preventing solid ice formation. Even if ice appears in these areas, it is often thin, slushy, and weak, making it unsafe for walking or driving.

2. Fluctuating Temperatures
Since aerators keep the water moving, the freezing process is delayed or inconsistent. This means that while the surrounding ice may be thick enough to support weight, aerated areas remain thin, creating hidden weak spots.

3. Expansion and Contraction of Ice
Because ice forms at different rates, there can be sudden changes in thickness. One step could be on solid ice, while the next could plunge through a weak area, making these zones unpredictable and hazardous.

4. Undercurrents and Open Water
Some aerated sections may appear frozen, but thin ice can cover areas of open water. These patches are especially dangerous because they may break suddenly under pressure.

Safety Precautions Near Aerators
To stay safe when venturing onto the ice at Simonton Lake, follow these precautions:

1. Stay Away from Marked Aerator Areas
Local authorities or lake associations often mark aerator locations with signs, stakes, or barriers. These zones should be strictly avoided to prevent accidents.

2. Test the Ice Regularly
If ice fishing or walking on the lake, always use a spud bar or ice auger to check thickness every few steps. Never assume ice is safe simply because it looks solid.

3. Use the Buddy System
Never go onto the ice alone. Having a partner means someone can call for help in case of an emergency.

4. Wear a Life Jacket or Ice Picks
Even in winter, wearing a life jacket or carrying ice picks can improve survival chances if you break through the ice.

5. Educate Others About Ice Safety
Inform family, friends, and neighbors about the dangers of thin ice near aerators to help prevent accidents.

​While Simonton Lake is a beautiful place for winter activities, ice safety is crucial—especially near aerators. The movement of water caused by aeration creates inconsistencies in ice thickness, making certain areas dangerous. By staying aware, taking safety precautions, and educating others, residents and visitors can enjoy the lake safely during the winter months.

Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, is a popular spot for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and winter recreation. While many residents and visitors enjoy the frozen lake, not all ice is safe to walk or drive on—especially in areas where water flows beneath the surface. Flowing water significantly impacts ice formation and strength, creating thin, weak, and unreliable ice that can be dangerous if not carefully assessed.

How Flowing Water Affects Ice Formation
1. Constant Movement Prevents Solid Freezing
Unlike still water, which allows thicker, more stable ice to form, flowing water disrupts the freezing process. Water movement beneath the ice prevents uniform ice growth, leading to thin, unstable sections. This means that even when other parts of the lake appear frozen solid, areas with flowing water can be dangerously weak.

2. Uneven Ice Thickness
Flowing water erodes ice from below, creating inconsistent ice thickness across the lake. A person may test the ice in one area and find it safe, only to step a few feet away and fall through thinner ice. This is especially dangerous near river inlets, outlets, and natural springs, where water movement is strongest.

3. Warm Water Upwelling
Some areas of Simonton Lake have underground springs that bring warmer water to the surface. This warm water prevents thick ice from forming and can create unexpectedly weak spots. Even if the surrounding ice looks thick, these hidden warm-water pockets increase the risk of breaking through.

4. Changing Ice Conditions
Ice on Simonton Lake is not static—it changes daily based on temperature, snowfall, and water movement. Even if an area was safe one day, flowing water can weaken it overnight, making previously stable ice unsafe. Rising temperatures or recent rainfall can accelerate this process, making ice conditions unpredictable.

High-Risk Areas on Simonton Lake
Certain locations on Simonton Lake are more prone to dangerous ice due to water movement, including:

• Near Inlets and Outlets: The constant flow of water prevents thick ice formation.
• Under Bridges: Moving water beneath bridges weakens ice, even when the rest of the lake appears solid.
• Near Docks and Piers: Water movement around docks often keeps ice from freezing uniformly.
• Where Streams Enter the Lake: Any spot where a creek or river feeds into the lake is high-risk for thin ice.

Safety Tips for Avoiding Flowing Water Hazards

• Check Ice Thickness Frequently: Clear ice should be at least 4 inches thick for walking and 8-12 inches for vehicles. Always test ice in multiple locations.
• Stay Away from Inlets, Outlets, and Springs: Assume any area with moving water has weaker ice.
• Look for Visual Cues: Thin ice may have darker or slushy patches, indicating weaker spots.
• Never Travel Alone: If you fall through, having a buddy can be life-saving.
• Wear a Life Jacket or Flotation Suit: In case of an emergency, this can prevent drowning.

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Flowing water under the ice makes certain areas of Simonton Lake unpredictable and dangerous. By staying aware of where moving water exists and taking proper precautions, you can enjoy winter activities safely while avoiding the hidden dangers beneath the ice.