Frozen lake warning from Milwaukee Fire Department

The sudden and extreme cold has caused many area ponds, creeks and streams to flash freeze, making it tempting to walk on them.

The Milwaukee Fire Department warns against that. The ice needs to be at least four inches thick before you go on it.

Anything less could cause you to fall into the chilly water.

\"In a minute you can't move your legs, fingers, or digits,\" explained Lt. Thomas Treutelaar. \"It makes it difficult to rescue yourself. You start to shut down. Even your mind starts to shut down.\"

When it comes to walking on the ice there's an old saying thick and blue, tried and true. Thin and crispy, way too risky.

The experts say to avoid any running stream underneath the ice as well. 

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