As lakes and ponds begin to freeze, outdoor enthusiasts across Maine are looking to gear up for winter activities like ice fishing and snowmobiling.

But before you head out, game wardens say safety should be your first priority.

“We have situations all around the state every year,” said Maine Game Warden Arron Rideout.

According to maine.gov, color alone cannot guarantee the safety of the ice. 

Wardens say you should check where you are walking to ensure it is at least four to six inches thick.

“Really the only way to know is to test the ice yourself,” said Maine Game Warden Arron Rideout. “So, you want to bring a chisel with you, or an ice auger, and just periodically as you’re going out check the ice in front of you to make sure it’s safe.”

“It’s more about the quality of the ice versus the quantity of the ice,” he added.

And wardens say you should avoid slushy ice and areas of open water. 

“What you’re looking for is nice, full thickness ice that’s solid all the way through,” said Rideout. “No slush, no shell ice, no big air pockets and air bubbles and things like that.”

Wardens say you should also tell someone where you're going, avoid heading out onto the ice alone and bring a pair of ice picks in case you fall through.

“Go and check the body of water before you go out,” said Maine Game Warden Arron Rideout. “See how it’s freezing. See how the conditions are.”

According to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife website, ice is never 100% safe. 

Visit their webpage on ice safety for thickness guidelines and other information.