THERE'S NO BUSINESS LIKE SNOW BUSINESS. Wisconsin has more than 25,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. (Photo by Travel Wisconsin)

As temperatures fall and snow accumulates (cross your fingers on that one!), snowmobilers are getting eager to gun their engines across the Wisconsin landscape. When they do, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminds them to keep safety in mind as part of their winter fun.

That includes staying alert to the rapidly changing ice conditions commonly found in the early and later parts of winter, the DNR says.

“The biggest thing we want folks to remember is that no ice is completely safe,” said Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, DNR off-highway vehicle administrator. “On a sunny day, ice that may have been thick enough to drive on in the morning may be unsafe by the afternoon, especially during the early part of the season.”

This rule also applies to ATVs and UTVs. Last season, several ATVs and UTVs went through the ice in Wisconsin, with two incidents resulting in fatalities. Local fishing clubs, outfitters, and bait shops are the best sources for current ice conditions.

The DNR also encourages all snowmobilers to take a safety education class. According to Wisconsin law, anybody at least 12 years of age and born after Jan. 1, 1985, must have a valid safety education certificate to operate a snowmobile. Sign up now for a spot at dnr.wisconsin.gov/Education/OutdoorSkills/safetyEducation.

And whether you’re headed onto the ice to snowmobile, cross-country ski, or ice fish, the DNR offers the following safety tips:

• Dress warmly in layers.
• Don't go alone. Head out with friends or family. Take a cellphone, and make sure someone knows where you are and when you are expected to return.
• Know before you go. Don't travel in areas you are not familiar and don't travel at night or during reduced visibility.
• Avoid inlets, outlets, or narrow that may have current that can thin the ice.
• Look for clear ice, which is generally stronger than ice with snow on it or bubbles in it.
• Carry some basic safety gear: ice claws or picks, a cellphone in a waterproof bag or case, a life jacket, and length of rope.

For more information on ice safety, visit dnr.wisconsin.gov/Education/OutdoorSkills/IceSafety.