NYRFRX -- further north than you, we actually can ice fish close to the holes in the ice from the aerators. The ice doesn't gradually thin out away from the hole. It's close to "standard" thickness very close to the opening. Of course, standard for us is perhaps 15 inches in the "warm" winters, and as much as 30+ in the hard winters.
I'm also not advocating a lack of safety concern. It's a huge concern to have an open hole in the ice during the winter -- be it kids, dogs, or adults. Safety first, always.
Hope this helps!
