Leech Lake, near Horseshoe Bay Resort, Jan. 6, 2023. Photo courtesy of Cass County Sheriff’s Office
No one was injured after a vehicle fell through the ice on Leech Lake Friday morning, but officials are reminding everyone to follow guidelines when it comes to ice.
According to a release, the driver, a 19-year-old male from Buffalo, was on the plowed roadway near Horseshoe Bay Resort with a snowplow attached to a 2007 Dodge Ram when the large crack formed.
He was able to escape the vehicle without injury.
Ice conditions in the area varied, with the ice road re-routed and anglers in the area notified.
Newly-elected Cass County Sheriff Brian Welk reminds everyone that no ice should be considered 100 percent safe and to use common sense when venturing onto the hardwater, such as:
- Check existing ice conditions as you travel.
- Check with local bait shops, resorts, gas stations, and/or other anglers for conditions.
- Consider other means of transportation besides a motor vehicle. (ATV, snowmobile or foot travel are good choices)
- Do not travel on the lake after dark.
- Always notify someone of the area you are traveling in and your expected return time.
- Carry a cell phone.
- Be familiar with the lake – carry a map.
- If you need emergency assistance, call 911.
- Consider a GPS unit to help you on and off the lake.
- Avoid the use of alcohol.
- Pay attention to warning signs that are posted. Remember warning signs cannot be posted everywhere.
- When available, access the lake through a resort or public access and travel only on plowed roads.
