Concern for children ....Safety tip

[Wade Joseph]

I know all of us with kids try to get them out to enjoy the things we enjoy such as ice fishing. After reading a post about 10-12 inch augers on another board, the thought occurred to me that those of us with large bore augers should be kicking snow/ice into the holes when we are done for the day. This will allow it to refreeze faster so someones small child or girlfreind/wife for that mater (small feet) doesnt end up stepping into one of these large diameter holes.

This goes for spear houses too. Put the block back in the hole. Also, for the saftey fo those on sleds or wheelers, find some way to mark the block or keep it very near your spear house.

[Early Riser]

Wade, Good topic. I wouldn't recommend putting snow into an auger hole because that will actually retard the freezing process due to the insulation factor. It may also hide the hole making it more likely for a little one to get a wet foot or worse. For large auger holes and spearholes always place a branch in the hole that is visible from at least 200' so that, in the case of a spearhole, vehicles can see it in plenty of time to change coarse.

[hanson]

Kicking snow back into the hole would be the last thing I do. You are making a dangerous situation even worse. Now, adults & children alike, will not be able to see where the danger is since you covered it up with snow. Marking the hole with a stick may be the best option.

Holes refreeze pretty quickly and it doesn't take long in the middle of winter for a hole to refreeze with 2" of ice.

[jbell1981]

I agree, do not put snow back into the hole. Me and my 5 year old had a couple days of fishing ruined by people putting snow over the hole and then my son falling into them. It was just one of his legs both times, so he was fine, but can't keep fishing with wet pants, boots and socks.

[iland99]

When I was four I stepped in a hole that had been covered with snow and ice shavings. What you are suggesting is the worst thing you can do!!

[stmichael]

Here is one that I would appreciate if everybody would do:

If you are done drilling your holes and you feel like abusing your drill by drilling half a hole and letting it stand, please finish drilling the hole when you leave. so a person cannot break an ankle if the are walking the area.