SHREWSBURY — Two individuals were transported to local hospitals Monday morning after falling through the ice at Dean Park Pond while ice skating.
Authorities were alerted to the incident at approximately 7:23 a.m. when walkers in the area reported seeing the pair fall through the ice.
Shrewsbury Police, Fire Department, and Worcester EMS responded swiftly to the call.
The emergency teams arrived at the scene to find the individuals attempting to skate back to the shoreline.
They were promptly assisted by the responders and taken to the hospitals for evaluation and treatment.
Officials remind the public to exercise extreme caution when venturing onto ice-covered bodies of water.
The Shrewsbury Police Department has released safety tips to ensure residents enjoy winter activities without risking harm:
– Ice should be at least 4 inches thick for walking or skating, 5-7 inches for snowmobiles or ATVs, and 8-12 inches for cars.
– Always check for potential danger signs such as cracks, slush, or open water, which signal unsafe conditions.
– Be cautious around areas with moving water, including currents, inlets, or outlets.
– Assess the ice quality: clear blue ice is typically strong and safe, white opaque ice is weaker, and gray or dark ice indicates potential danger due to melting or water presence underneath.
– To be prepared, carry ice picks, a rope, a whistle, and never go alone.
– In case of falling in, remain calm, kick to propel yourself out, and roll to solid ground.
