Two people drove a snowmobile into Indian Lake Saturday night, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
The incident happened around 7 p.m. at Indian Lake State Park. When ODNR Natural Resource Officers arrived, the pair had already made it safely to shore without assistance. Medics checked both individuals, and no injuries were reported. The snowmobile was recovered from the lake on Sunday.
While snowmobiling is permitted at Indian Lake State Park, there are important safety rules to follow. Snowmobiles may operate on the frozen lake surface and along the ditches of the west and south banks between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. There are no designated snowmobile or all-purpose vehicle trails within the park. Snowmobiles must also have a current registration.
Park officials caution riders to be mindful of open water, slow down for pedestrians, and remember that no ice is completely safe. The park currently has several open water areas. Guidelines for ice safety include:
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0–3 inches – stay off the ice
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4 inches – supports one person with gear
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5 inches – supports a small group, spread out
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6 inches – supports a single snowmobile
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9 inches – supports multiple snowmobiles
ODNR reminds the public that safety comes first and urges everyone to exercise caution while snowmobiling on frozen surfaces.
