Wisconsin DNR shares ice safety tips ahead of sturgeon spearing season

WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- We've seen a lot of different weather patterns to start 2025, which has Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources sending out a warning. 

They want people to be safe out on the ice this winter, and with sturgeon spearing opening Saturday, they expect a lot of people outdoors. 

The DNR says this winter, there have been five water-related deaths, with four of them involving UTVs, or utility task vehicles.

They've become more popular in recent years, with 188,000 currently registered in the state. 

But the DNR says a unique weather season of warm stretches and cold snaps can create dangerous conditions on small and large lakes alike.

Some tips for anyone with a UTV out on the ice: keep your windows rolled down and the radio off so you can use your eyes and ears to spot any upcoming issues. 

You also want to keep a life jacket or floatation device for everyone riding with you.