LACONIA, N.H. — Six people on New Hampshire's lakes fell through the ice over the weekend, and now Fish and Game is warning that the ice may not be as safe as it looks.
All six people were able to get out of the water safely, on their own, after falling through, but it’s a dangerous reminder that even though lakes and ponds are frozen over, the ice thickness can vary greatly.
These incidents were all on Saturday, starting on Lake Winnipesaukee near Tuftonboro when shortly after 1 p.m. a snowmobile carrying two people unexpectedly went through the ice.
Hours later, two ATVs crashed through on Big Squam Lake in Center Harbor, and shortly after that, another snowmobile carrying two people fell through the ice on Meredith Bay on Winnipesaukee.
You can read more about the incidents here.
It’s crucial to remember ice doesn’t freeze uniformly, so its thickness can vary and it's necessary to check multiple spots. Ice near streams, bridges and culverts can be particularly dangerous.
If you have any interest in venturing out on the ice to fish, it’s a good idea to check the fishing report from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. There are tips, information and updates from seven regions across the state - including safe places to go and what you may find.