5 people hospitalized after falling through thin ice in Acton

ACTON, Mass. — Officials are reminding residents to exercise caution when walking on or near icy waterways after a group of people fell through thin ice on Monday afternoon.

Acton Fire Chief Anita Arnum says the dangerous incident occurred just before 3 p.m. at NARA Park.

Arriving crews found several people who had fallen through the ice and emerged from the pond. Those remaining in the water walked out under their own power.

In total, five people, three 23-year-old men, a 23-year-old woman, and a 30-year-old man, were taken to an area hospital for cold exposure and treatment. They are all expected to be okay.

Chief Arnum says the group was filming a video at the time the ice gave way.

“Icy waterways in Acton are, at this time, absolutely not safe for any human activities including walking, skating, fishing, etc.,” officials said.

Residents are reminded to follow these safety tips regarding thin ice and cold weather:

• Before heading out, tell someone your plans and where you are going.
• Be Vigilant. No natural ice is 100 percent safe, and many factors can impact ice strength.
• Avoid walking on ice-bound rivers or other bodies of water, as currents can make ice thickness unpredictable and dangerous.
• Do not drive any kind of vehicle, including cars or snowmobiles, over the ice. The additional weight from the vehicle can cause the ice to crack faster.

If you find that you’ve fallen through the ice:

• Turn back towards the direction you came from as the ice that is previously walked on should be the safest.
• If someone else falls through the ice, follow the actions: Preach-Reach-Throw-Go
• Preach, calling 911 if possible and letting the victim know help is on the way
• Reach, if it is safe to reach the victim from shore, extend a sturdy object for the victim to grab.
• Throw, if it is safe to do so, toss the end of a rope or a flotation device to the victim.
• Go, if a situation becomes too dangerous go find help as untrained rescuers can often become victims.

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