North Attleboro Fire Department warns public after rescuing man who fell through ice

NORTH ATTLEBORO — Chief Christopher Coleman reports that the North Attleboro Fire Department responded after a man fell through the ice at Falls Pond Thursday afternoon.

On Thursday, Feb. 17, at approximately 4 p.m., North Attleboro Fire responded to Falls Pond near Mohawk Drive for a report that a man who was ice fishing fell through the ice.

Upon arrival, firefighters dressed in ice rescue suits went out onto the pond with an ice rescue sled and were able to bring the man to safety within five minutes.

The man was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for evaluation.

As a policy, the North Attleboro Fire Department does not certify whether any bodies of water are safe to use for recreational purposes. The department advises residents to stay off the ice and that all ice should be considered unsafe.

“A job well done to our firefighters who put their training to use to quickly aid a person in need of help,” Chief Coleman said. “Even on the coldest days, it is hard to truly be able to tell how thick ice is. For that reason, we advise residents to stay off the ice in order to avoid potentially dangerous situations like this.”

Additionally, the North Attleboro Fire Department would like to recommend the following ice safety tips:

General Ice and Cold Water Safety

Never go onto the ice alone, since it’s unlikely you will be able to call 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 a rescue it. Call 911 instead.

New ice is usually stronger than old ice. As the ice ages, the bond between the crystals decay, 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.

Slush is a danger sign, indicating that ice is no longer freezing from the bottom and can be weak or deteriorating.

Ice formed overflowing water (rivers or lakes containing a large number of springs) is generally 15 percent weaker.

Ice seldom freezes or thaws at a uniform rate. It can be one foot thick in one spot and be only one inch thick 10 feet away.

What To Do If Someone Falls Through Ice

Reach-Throw-Go: If someone falls through the ice and you are unable to reach that person from shore, throw them something (rope, tree branch, etc.) If this does not work, go for help 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 you came from. 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.