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DNR warns against rescues of animals fallen through iceThe DNR is warning people to not risk their lives trying to save an animal that has fallen through thin ice. ěItís very upsetting to see a beloved pet or other animal in a bad situation, but we strenuously advise against risking human life in an attempt to rescue any animal,î said DNR water safety specialist Tim Smalley. DNR records indicate that over the years there have been a number of people who have drowned in a attempt to rescue a dog. ěSadder still is that often after the person goes under, the animal gets out of the water without help,î said Tim Smalley, MN DNR water safety specialist. This comes after a 19-year-old man drowned after breaking through one inch thick ice on Wettles Lake in Becker County, Tuesday, the day before his 20th birthday. He was trying to rescue his dog that had broken through while following some deer on the ice. He fell into the water and was submerged for nearly an hour. He was recovered by a rescue diver, resuscitated and then flown to a Fargo hospital, where he died. The DNR recommends if you are walking your dog anywhere there might be thin ice, keep it on a leash so it canít bolt out onto the lake. If you see an animal that has fallen through the ice, contact the local authorities or DNR conservation officer who will determine if the animal can be rescued safely. Ice experts recommend at least four inches of new clear ice for activites such as ice fishing, six inches for snowmobiles and eight to twelve inches of new solid ice for small to medium-sized cars and trucks. For more information about ice safety, Minnesotans may call the DNR toll free at 1-800-MINNDNR. Computer users can download ice safety information from the DNR website www.dnr.state.mn.us and click on ěDanger Thin Ice.î ©ECM Post Review |