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Ice Safety

The Holden Fire Department does not respond to requests for information regarding the thickness of formed ice. It is important to remember that at no time is this deemed a safe activity, and is associated with significant inherent risk to injury/life. Please review the below safety and self-rescue information if you seek to partake in any activities on formed ice.

As temperatures drop, and bodies of water throughout the area begin to freeze over, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has issued information regarding safety precautions to be taken on our frozen lakes, rivers and ponds.
 

  • ·     Never go onto the ice alone. A friend may be able to rescue you or go for help if you fall through the ice.
  • ·     Always keep your pets on a leash.  If a pet falls through the ice do not attempt to rescue your pet, call 9-1-1 or go for help.
  • ·     New ice is usually stronger than old ice.  As ice ages, the bond between the crystals decays, making it weaker, even if melting has not occurred.
  • ·     Beware of ice covered with snow.  Snow can insulate ice and keep it strong, but can also insulate it to keep it from freezing. Snow can also hide cracks, weak and open ice.
  • ·     Slush is a danger sign, indicating that ice is no longer freezing from the bottom and can be weak or deteriorating.
  • ·     Ice formed over flowing water (rivers or lakes containing a large number of springs) is generally 15% weaker.
  • ·     Ice seldom freezes or thaws at a uniform rate.  It can be one foot thick in one spot and be only a few inches thick 10 feet away.
  • ·     Reach-Throw-Go.  If a companion falls through the ice and you are unable to reach that person from shore, throw them something (rope, jumper cables, tree branch, etc.). If this does not work, go for help or call 9-1-1, before you also become a victim. Get medical assistance for the victim immediately.


·     If you fall in, try not to panic. Turn toward the direction from which you came.  Place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface, working forward by kicking your feet.  Once out, remain lying on the ice (do not stand) and roll away from the hole. Crawl back to your tracks, keeping your weight distributed until you return to solid ice.
By following safety procedures, you can be safe and enjoy the many winter activities offered by the great outdoors.