DEM inspects ice pond conditions

LINCOLN, R.I. (WPRI) - Southern New England is bracing for a deep freeze. Some of the coldest air we've seen here in several years will be settling in our area, and sticking around for the next several days.

Not only are the cold temperatures brutal, they can be dangerous. That's why in weather like this, there are people who who make a living trying to make outdoor safety a priority. Especially on the ice and in the frigid cold temperatures.

It is a daily and chilly task, but every morning the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is out on three different bodies of water to make sure the ice is thick enough, and safe enough for ice sports and ice fishing.

"As of today, it appears that we will have some safe ice conditions in designated areas at Lincoln Woods State Park and Meshanticut State Park in Cranston. We still have some unsafe conditions at Goddard Memorial State Park  in Warwick," says John Faltus, Deputy Chief of Parks and Recreation.

The Rhode Island DEM only measures and monitors those designated areas, so even if the small pond or lake in your community looks to be thick enough, think twice about it.

"Individuals should never just assume the ice is safe by its appearance. You really have to go out and check the ice in a couple of different locations, to check and see if it has a uniform thickness," adds Faltus.

While the sub-freezing temperatures Rhode Island is expecting over the next couple of days can be dangeous if you're out in the elements , dressing properly in layers is key.

DEM expects even with those plumeting temperatures, it will be a busy weekend out on the ice that's been deemed safe enough for skating.

Keep in mind conditions do change, so it's important to check the DEM website to make sure those areas are available before you head out.