CLEVELAND (NBC 26) -- The U.S. Coast Guard says ice conditions on the Great Lakes are far below the seasonal average.
In a news release Monday, the Coast Guard asked the public to use caution while out on the ice this season.
"The combination of open water, unstable ice formation and areas of relatively weak ice may create hazardous conditions for recreational users," the Coast Guard said.
Anyone venturing out onto the ice is asked to check weather and ice conditions before going out, wear proper clothing for conditions and never venture onto the ice without proper safety equipment.
For more information about cold water safety, recommended safety gear and tips for handling emergencies, visit the Cold Water Boot Camp web site at: http://www.coldwaterbootcampusa.org/
