Ice skating, fishing open at Columbia parks

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Columbia Parks and Recreation has opened up two lakes at Columbia parks for ice skating and ice fishing.

Skating is open at Stephens Lake Park and ice fishing is available as Cosmo-Bethel Park, Parks and Recreation said in a news release. The city opens the lakes for ice activities when the ice reaches 4 inches deep.

Staff will continue to monitor ice conditions on the lakes, the release says.

Parks and Rec also shared tips to stay safe on the ice:

• Never ice skate or ice fish alone.
• Do not gather in large groups in one spot on the ice.
• Ice skating and ice fishing are not allowed after dark.
• Have a rope, ladder or pole available in case of emergency.
• Warn others of dangerous conditions.
• Be aware that ice thickness is not consistent; stay away from cracks, seams, pressure ridges, slushy areas and darker areas that signify thinner ice. 
• Beware of ice around partially submerged objects, such as trees, logs, brush, embankments or dam structures.
• Children should never be allowed to skate or fish unsupervised.