Safety.

A great day can turn into the worst day of your life in seconds. Sure, we all want to catch the biggest fish, but it's not as important as keeping yourself and the others around you safe.

With the 36th annual HAWG Derby, this weekend is a big one for ice fishing around Casper. The Natrona County Emergency Management team has issued a safety reminder. Even the most experienced on the ice sometimes need to be reminded of the simple safety tips.

Ice Safety Tips:

  • The ice thickness in the water you're fishing is different. You should check it every 100-150 feet. NCEM reports that the ice at Bishops Point at Pathfinder, where the HAWK Ice Fishing Derby is being held, is between 8 and 16 inches.
  • New, clear Ice should be at least 4" thick to walk on, 5-7" before driving an ATV, and 8-15" thick before driving a car or small truck. Old or white ice should be double the thickness to do these.
  • Wear a life jacket or floatation device if you fall through the ice.
  • Carry ice picks and a rope for added precautions.

Cracking Ice or Falling Into The Water Tips:

  • If the ice begins to crack under you, lay face-first on the ice and spread your arms and legs out, spreading your body weight out, then roll away from the crack.
  • Falling through the ice is scary, but if you do, remain calm. Put your arms and hands on unbroken ice. Work your way out of the water onto the ice by kicking your feet and walking your hands and elbows. Once you're out of the water, roll or army-crawl away from the hole.
  • If you see someone else fall into the water, remain calm and call 9-1-1.

Wyoming Winter Emergency Kit

Emergency Kit

Building An Emergency Snow Shelter

Gallery Credit: Corporals Corner via YouTube