As more anglers head onto Presque Isle Bay to ice fish, the Erie Port Authority is hoping to spread a message of safety.

The port authority has distributed 11 ice rescue crosses along Erie's bayfront.

Placed at popular fishing spots and boat launches, the crosses can be used to help someone who has fallen through the ice.

"If someone were to fall through the ice, they can be used from shore or from stable footing to help pull somebody out," said Erie Port Authority Harbormaster Tony Pianta. "The fire department can't be there in a moment's notice and if you're able to assist somebody getting out of the water safely, then it's very important."

Here's how they work.

"You're going to grab them, untie the yellow rope that's on the bottom, push the ice cross out to the victim that is in the water," said Pianta. "From you standing on land, you're going to grab the yellow rope and try to pull them back out."

Pianta also urges everyone to pay close attention to the ice conditions.

"We get these weather reports with ice thickness," said Pianta. "It's very important to check for the safety of yourself and just know that not all of the ice is the same. There's many variables that could change the strength of the ice."