The region has gotten cold enough that most area lakes now have a good layer of ice for fishing, skating, hockey and other outdoor adventures.

That doesn’t mean those venturing out shouldn’t still be cautious and use safe practices when on the ice, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources advises.

“Even during consistent cold stretches, pressure cracks in the ice can develop within hours,” said Lt. Skip Hagy, DNR law enforcement supervisor in Newberry. “There is no such thing as ‘safe’ ice. Always check conditions for yourself; don’t rely on what you see others doing or what they tell you.”

Frozen bodies of water should be checked very carefully before braving the ice, according to the DNR. While there is no perfectly reliable method to determine if ice is safe, those going out should use a spud, needle bar or auger to test the thickness and quality of ice.

River mouths and other places where river or lake currents may be are often places of unstable ice. Reservoirs with changing water levels also require great caution.

“Keep in mind that warm spells as brief as one day may weaken the ice,” Hagy added. “Melting ice during the day only partially refreezes at night, creating a thin layer of unstable ice.”

The DNR suggests those going on the ice wear a buoyant fishing jacket or snowmobile suit, along with a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket as the outermost layer of clothing, plus have a pair of ice picks and a whistle clipped on their chest.

“Nobody plans to fall through the ice, but you should be prepared in case it happens,” Hagy said. “If you fall through the ice, the most important thing is to remain calm and return in the direction you came from. Return to the ice where you broke through, and pull yourself out of the water, rolling onto the ice. Don’t try to stand. Instead, crawl to help distribute your weight until you feel you’re safely away from the weak spot. Seek help immediately to prevent hypothermia.”

The Wisconsin DNR put out similar advice. Additional ice safety tips from the two DNRs include:

— Carry a cell phone and let people know where you are going and when you’ll return home.

— If there’s ice on the lake but water around the shoreline, use extra caution.

— When visiting a new area, ask locals at bait shops, restaurants or stores about ice conditions — but always independently check conditions before going onto the ice.

— If walking on the ice, wear a pair of ice cleats to help with traction.

— Take an extra pair of mittens or gloves so your hands can remain dry and warm.

— Wear bright colors to increase visibility. White clothing and gear are difficult to see.

— Use the buddy system and tell someone remaining on shore where you will be and when you plan to return.

— Do not travel in unfamiliar areas — or at night.

— If operating a snowmobile or off-road vehicle, ride in a staggered line. This makes it easier to maneuver in case a rider ahead breaks through the ice.

To be prepared for the worst, the Wisconsin DNR recommends —

— Carry a couple of hand-held spikes and a length of light rope in an easily accessible pocket or inside your sleeves to help pull yourself — or others — out of the ice.

— If you fall in, remain as calm as possible and while attempting to assist yourself out of the water, call for help as soon as you can. Anyone who attempts to rescue you also is recommended to use a rope or something similar to avoid falling through as well

For more information, go to Michigan.gov/IceSafety. For snowmobile safety tips, go to Michigan.gov/RideRight.