Is it safe to walk on frozen lakes?

The answer

Not automatically. Ice thickness varies with currents, snow cover and underwater springs, and snow can hide thin spots, so you should never assume an unmarked surface will hold you. Only use ice that local authorities or operators say is safe, follow official ice guidance, and take extra care in early winter and during the spring thaw, when ice is thin or changing. Never go alone onto ice you are unsure about, and keep to marked routes.