The Coast Guard issued a warning Thursday that warmer temperatures this week and upcoming weekend will greatly increase the possibility of weakened ice in the Upper Peninsula and northern Michigan.

The recent trend and prediction of warmer temperatures has caused extremely hazardous ice conditions throughout northern Michigan, including Marquette Harbor, Munising Bay, the Straits of Mackinac and surrounding bodies of water.

The Coast Guard warns of the possibility of ice breaking apart with people ice fishing and transiting on the ice.

"Ice conditions throughout the Straits of Mackinac will rapidly deteriorate with the warmer temperatures the region is experiencing," said Senior Chief Petty Officer Michael Beatty, officer-in-charge of Coast Guard Station St Ignace, Mich.

"With the prediction of warmer temperatures over the next several days, there is a concern that people will be at risk for falling through the ice."

For more information about the warning, contact 906-635-3233.

The Coast Guard warns people to never venture out on the ice alone and proper precautions should always be taken before heading out on the water or the ice.

When venturing out, a person should think I.C.E. as a precaution:

• Intelligence - Know the weather and ice conditions, know where you are going and know how to call for help. Never go out alone.
• Clothing - Have the proper clothing to prevent hypothermia. Wear a waterproof exposure suit and a life jacket.
• Equipment - Have the proper equipment. Carry two ice picks or screwdrivers, in case you fall in. Use these items to dig into the ice and pull yourself out. They are more effective than bare hands. Carry a whistle or noise maker to alert people that you are in distress. Carry a cellular phone or marine band radio in a waterproof container, so that you can call for help if you come across trouble.

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