Ice Rescue Incidents in Arlington and Shrewsbury: What You Need to Know
Multiple people fell through ice in Arlington and Shrewsbury on Monday, prompting responses from local authorities. Just before 7:30 a.m., Shrewsbury police responded to reports that two people had fallen through the ice at Dean Park Pond, the department said in a release. Police officers and firefighters from Shrewsbury were joined by EMS personnel from Worcester at the scene. Upon arrival, they found two people who had fallen through the ice, but were skating toward the shoreline. They had been ice skating on the pond and fell through somewhere near the middle, officials said. First responders helped them to the shoreline and transported them to local hospitals for treatment.
The Arlington Fire Department said in a social media post that firefighters responded to an ice rescue call Monday at the Arlington Reservoir. “The only safe ice is indoor ice at the rink,” the Arlington Fire Department said in its statement. A Lexington official told Boston 25 News that a teenage boy fell through the ice at the reservoir around 4 p.m. The boy’s father was with him, but was unable to pull him out. First responders from Arlington and Lexington successfully saved the boy. He was reportedly evaluated by paramedics and is expected to recover. Arlington and Lexington officials could not be reached for comment Tuesday. Shrewsbury police offered a series of tips to avoid dangerous situations like these. Clear, blue ice is strong and usually safe, while white, opaque ice is weaker and thinner, they said. Gray or dark ice is unsafe, as this indicates that the surface is melting. People should check for cracks, slush, or open water before venturing out onto any ice, officials said. They should avoid going near any areas with moving water. Carrying ice picks, ropes, and whistles is encouraged. People going out on the ice should never do so alone, they added.
Expert Tips for Ice Safety
Ross Cristantiello, a general assignment news reporter for Boston.com since 2022, covers local politics, crime, the environment, and more. Boston.com Today Sign up to receive the latest headlines in your inbox each morning.