ARLINGTON — Police Chief Julie Flaherty and Fire Chief Kevin Kelley report that the Arlington Police and Fire Departments responded to Spy Pond multiple times over the weekend for reports of ice skaters who had fallen through the ice.
On Sunday, Jan. 23, Arlington Police responded to Spy Pond on three separate occasions for reports of skaters who had fallen through the ice.
At approximately 11:40 a.m., Arlington Police first responded to Spy Pond in the area of 32 Hamilton Road for a report of a person who had fallen through the ice approximately 100 yards offshore and was still in the water. Upon arrival, Officer Mike Hogan found the 50-year-old Cambridge man holding onto the edge of the ice while treading water.
Officer Hogan threw a rope for the man to hold onto and was able to bring him safely ashore with the assistance of a bystander and Officer Joseph Canniff. The man was evaluated by Arlington Fire at the scene and safely reunited with his family.
About two hours later, Arlington Police responded to Spy Pond again at approximately 1:30 p.m. for another report of a person who had fallen through the ice near the same location as the first incident. Upon their arrival, Arlington Police observed a bystander pulling the man who had fallen through the ice in a sled safely to shore. The victim was treated on scene and transported to Mount Auburn Hospital by Arlington Fire.
At about 4 p.m., Arlington Police received a third report of an individual who had fallen through the ice at Spy Pond. Arlington Fire quickly arrived on scene and firefighters were able to safely rescue the male party. The man was transported to Mount Auburn Hospital.
As a result of these incidents, barricades were put in place at several entrances at the pond to deter people from going onto the ice.
“I would like to commend all Arlington first responders who responded to these incidents at Spy Pond yesterday,” Chief Flaherty said. “I would also like to recognize the actions of all the bystanders who did the right thing by calling 911 immediately for further assistance. Thanks to the actions of our first responders and community members alike, all parties were able to be safely rescued without further incident.”
Added Chief Flaherty, “Additionally, we advise community members to never go out on frozen bodies of water as it’s difficult to tell how thick ice is which can be extremely dangerous.”
Keep Dogs Off Ice
The Arlington Fire Department reminds residents to keep their dogs off of the ice. These situations can have tragic outcomes as it puts the dog, the owner and first responders in unnecessarily risky situations. Please keep your dogs and first responders safe and do not allow dogs on the ice.
The Only Safe Ice is at a Skating Rink
Ed Burns Ice Rink offers Public Skate sessions throughout the week for a nominal fee. Skate rentals and sharpening are usually available during public skate times. View public skate times here.
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