PEWAUKEE LAKE, Wis. — A 61-year-old man died Saturday afternoon while riding a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) on Pewaukee Lake. The Waukesha County Sheriff’s Office and Lake Country Fire and Rescue were dispatched to the scene around 3 p.m.


What You Need To Know

  • Emergency crews are urging everyone to stay cautious when out on the ice
  • Fluctuating temperatures create unpredictable conditions on frozen lakes and ponds

  • It's important to check ice thickness before heading out

  • Be prepared with proper life-saving tools like ice picks and a float coat

According to officials, the victim fell through the ice, and scuba divers were called in to assist. Rescuers say it took about 45 minutes to locate the man underwater. This tragic incident highlights the dangers of winter ice activities, and emergency crews are urging everyone to stay cautious.

“You are standing on something that used to be water, and there is no certain way to determine it will support your weight,” said Assistant Chief Matthew Haerter of Lake Country Fire and Rescue.

Haerter explained that fluctuating temperatures create unpredictable conditions on frozen lakes and ponds. Factors like underwater springs and flowing water can weaken ice in certain areas, even when it appears solid on the surface.

“This time of year, we see many ice-related emergencies. In addition to the fatal drowning on Pewaukee Lake, there were other calls involving people falling through the ice while using ATVs,” Haerter said.

Officials are stressing the importance of checking ice thickness before heading out. For a single person, the ice should be at least four inches thick. For ATVs, it needs to be at least seven inches thick.

Haerter recommends these additional safety measures:

  • Know the lake: Understand the conditions and check local ice reports. Use common sense
  • Never go alone: Always have someone with you.
  • Be prepared: Carry life-saving tools like ice picks, and invest in a float coat—a jacket with a built-in flotation device. 

“Having ice picks integrated into your coat allows you to anchor yourself on the ice, even if you can’t pull yourself out immediately,” Haerter explained. “A float coat, which costs around $100 to $150, ensures you stay above water and could save your life.”

Haerter emphasized how quickly hypothermia can set in after falling into freezing water. “You quickly lose dexterity in your hands and the ability to think clearly. It’s a true emergency, and getting out immediately is critical,” he said.

Haerter and his team hope these safety tips will prevent future tragedies and save lives. For more on ice safety and local conditions, visit the DNR.