This Just In . . . Maryland Department of Natural Resources officials have issued these warnings in regard to frozen Deep Creek Lake in Western Maryland. The words in italics inspire our imaginings of snowmobiles suddenly touching sky, crashing through ice and . . . . please wear your PFDs, people! Or a parachute!

"The Maryland Park Service has issued an alert for snowmobilers for potential unseen safety hazards on the lake, particularly at night.  Road salt and abrasives plowed from highway bridges may affect the quality of the ice underneath and unseen snowdrifts can act as ramps and cause sleds to become airborne leading to a loss of control and accidents. In addition, ice will be removed near Uno's to open water for the Deep Creek Dunk special event starting on Wednesday Feb. 21, 2007. This area will remain unsafe for quite some time and it will be marked with reflective traffic cones. Deep Creek Lake is a part of the designated ORV trail system permitting use by registered snowmobiles only. Permits are available by mail or at any of the local State Park offices during normal business hours. Snowmobiles may operate at night if equipped with working head and taillights. Access to the lake may be made at Deep Creek Lake State Park or with permission from a private landowner adjacent to the lake. Ice fishermen, hikers and cross-country skiers traveling on the lake should also exercise caution.  The wearing of or having a readily accessible personal flotation device could prevent a tragedy.  If you encounter people, pets or wildlife that have fallen through the ice, contact either 911 or the toll free DNR Communications number 1-800-628-9944 for assistance."