SUV travel on the ice question...

A buddy of mine wants to take his 3 sons ice fishing on Monday at Sibbalds. Is the ice safe enough for an suv and has anyone seen any cars on the ice? TIA Alan

I doubt any members here will tell you it's safe to take 3 children out on the ice in an suv. No dickish intentions I'm just saying I'd be surprised.

Even if the ice was 3 feet thick and safe for an SUV I still don’t think the conditions with the snow and slush would allow an suv to get around. I was out last week 6.5 km and found spots with just 8” of ice.

[YOUTUBE]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfHTIf0E29c[/YOUTUBE]

even with that chart it has to be perfect ice. I wouldn't take a vehicle (car) out on 12" of ice. I don't even take my quad out until there is at least 8" and that has to be everywhere. Then you have the cracks to contend with. and as mentioned slush and snow. This is how accidents happen. Tell your buddy to stay home or get a ride out with an ice taxi if available.

I always bring my kids out by walking or snowmobile and everyone is wearing a life jacket....it just makes sense even though its winter.....if one of your kids falls in a crack or breaks through a weak area they would sink faster than you could act.....if you wanna drive your SUV on ice....do it without children under 15. Just my opinion

Thank for the input, never driven out like that so i will let him know.Cheers Alan

Never take a vehicle out...btw no insurance will cover you if you go through......my rule is 5 inches for walking and 8 inches to take the ATV.

Arnie

PS the recovery and fines for a vehicle through the ice are astronomical.

Not entirely true.
Some insurance companies will cover you on the ice.
Check your policy.