MN DNR Urges Cold Water Caution as Ice Melts Across Becker and Otter Tail Counties

With ice melting on lakes in Becker and Otter Tail counties, Minnesota DNR Conservation Officers are reminding everyone that spring water can still be deadly cold—and the right life jacket could save your life.
We’re entering the time of year when some folks are still walking out onto the ice, while others are launching boats into newly opened lakes. Both come with serious risks if you’re not prepared.
The DNR emphasizes that wearing a life jacket is the number one way to survive a fall into cold water—especially in early spring, when water temps can be dangerously low.
Here are a few key safety tips directly from the DNR:
• Foam-filled life jackets work in all temperatures. Make sure they’re in good condition and properly fitted.
• Inflatable life jackets, which are popular for comfort, may not deploy properly in cold conditions. Check the manufacturer’s temperature guidelines.
• The best life jacket is the one you wear.
Cold water shock can overwhelm even strong swimmers in seconds, and drowning happens far faster than people realize—especially when it’s too cold to catch your breath.
DNR officers across the region, including Conservation Officer Adam Seifert in Fergus Falls and CO Angie Doss in the Detroit Lakes area, continue to see both ice travel and open water activity this time of year. They urge all residents and visitors to be smart, slow down, and wear a life jacket every time you’re near the water.
More info is available at mndnr.gov/safety/boatwater.
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