Stay Safe Near Spy Pond: 9 Ice Safety Tips

ARLINGTON, MA — If there was any significant freezing of Spy Pond this winter, it's likely gone after a recent string of warm weather.

In an announcement on Jan. 18, State officials warned residents of the dangers of thin ice in bodies of water around the area. The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), the Massachusetts State Police (MSP), the Department of Fire Services (DFS), and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), said that state and local officials receive reports of individuals falling through ice annually.

“Throughout Massachusetts residents will find excellent outdoor recreational opportunities for the whole family to enjoy; however, it is incredibly important that we all remain fully aware of our surroundings, particularly during the winter months, to ensure everyone remains safe,” said DCR Commissioner Leo Roy in a statement. “Falling through thin ice can very quickly become a tragedy, which is why we all must be diligent during this time of year.”

Officials added that hypothermia can be deadly if not treated immediately, and that symptoms include shivering, dizziness, hunger, nausea, accelerated breathing, difficulty speaking, lack of coordination, fatigue, and an increase in heart rate.

“The most important thing to remember when someone or a pet falls through the ice, is don’t become a victim yourself,” said State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey in a statement. “Call 9-1-1 first to get help on the way; then reach with something long or throw something to help them before firefighters arrive.”

The announcement provided nine tips that residents should follow when near bodies of water.

1. Parents should always closely watch and supervise their children.
2. Never go onto ice alone.
3. Always keep your pets on a leash (if a pet falls through the ice, do not attempt a rescue - - call for help).
4. Beware of ice covered with snow. Snow can insulate ice and keep it from freezing. It can also hide cracks as well as other weak spots.
5. Ice formed over flowing water (including springs under the surface) is generally weaker than ice over still water.
6. Ice seldom freezes or thaws at a uniform rate. It can be a foot thick in one spot and an inch thick in another.
7. If a companion falls through the ice and you are unable to reach that person from shore, throw something to him or her (a rope, tree branch, even jumper cables from a car, etc.). If this does not work, go or phone for help. Get medical assistance for the victim immediately.
8. If you fall in, try not to panic. Turn toward the direction you came from, and place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface, working forward by kicking your feet. Once the ice is solid enough to hold you, and you can pull yourself out, remain lying on the ice (do not stand; lying down spreads your weight across a wider area, lessening your weight on any one spot) and roll away from the hole. Crawl back the way you came, keeping your weight distributed, until you return to solid ice or ground.
9. As the season progresses, plan accordingly and use caution, as the conditions of older ice greatly varies and is subject to rapid changes.

Image via Public Domain Pictures.net