'Stay Off the Ice!' and Other Cold Weather Tips from the Wenham PD

The Wenham Police Department has a few tips to offer in the wake of the frigid temps that have settled over the area.

Tip No. 1: Stay off the ice!

“The Wenham Police and Fire Departments report that town waterways are NOT frozen enough to the point where they would be considered safe for walking or skating, and the departments warn that residents should NOT venture out on the ice,” a press release reads. The warning extends to Wenham Lake, Pleasant Pond, Longham Reservoir, Gull Pond, Coy Pond, and the Grand Wenham Canal Old Town Way.

Additional tips include:

• Never use your oven as a heat source
• Do not use electric or space heaters while sleeping.
• Keep electric or space heaters at least three feet away from bedding or combustible materials.
• Keep stocks of batteries on hand for radios and flashlights in case of a power outage.
• Never leave candles unattended.
• Beware of carbon monoxide and stay safe by: never warming up your car in the garage, serving your heating system at least once per year, and making sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and change batteries twice per year. Make sure smoke detectors are working on every floor of your home.
• During the coldest days, parents are reminded to dress students warmly, in layers, with hats on and exposed skin covered. However, make sure the clothing does not obstruct your child’s visibility as they are crossing the street.

The press release also reminds drivers to always ensure vehicle tailpipes are clear of ice and snow before starting the vehicle.

“The Wenham Police Department’s primary focus is the safety and security of our residents, visitors, and business owners, so we hope everyone will read these safety precautions and take them to heart,” Chief Thomas Perkins said. “I also encourage everyone to keep an eye out for their neighbors. Together, we can all stay warm and healthy this winter!”

Check out additional tips on the police department website.