I remember driving my car around on the lakes in Minnesota when I was young. It was always a little scarey, and I always waited to drive my little car (a Ford Maverick) on the lake until after I'd seen guys with their larger trucks out there.
They mention the risks of driving on frozen rivers, seems most people know better, but a lot of people don't realize how much the water can move under a lake. I grew up on Lake Minnetonka, which was river fed on the northern end, and there was also a river coming out at the other end. So the ice was frequently thin throughout the winter under bridges, where the water passed from one bay to the next, moving more swiftly through narrow passages. I don't know how many people are aware this can happen, and if you're not familiar with the lake, this can be quite hazardous as well.
I do have many fond memories of ice fishing, though. Sitting out there in my great uncle's little fish house, you could hear the stress cracks coming across the lake like thunder.
Ice fishing, and exploring the frozen lakes and regions, can be a great winter passtime. Just make sure you're aware of your surroundings, and check with authorities on where the safe and unsafe areas are. Lake Minnetonka always posted a suggested date based on forecasts to get your house off the water and stop driving on the lakes. Those advisements should be followed carefully... the water under the ice is COLD!!!
And it's amazing how many of these incidents have alcohol involved. People just don't think straight when they've been drinking. If you're going to consume large amounts of alcohol, try to make arranges to stay home, or stay with a friend. We don't always make the best decisions when we've been drinking...!!!
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