This past weekend, there were at least two reported incidents of individuals falling through ice into the frigid water below. The winter weather this weekend-the first major snowfall in the state this year-appeared to bring many people outside to engage in winter sports such as skiing, ice skating, and snowmobiling. Unfortunately, along with flurries and fun came falls and freezing temperatures.
First, according to news reports, three men were snowmobiling in Dudley when they fell through ice on Hayden Pond. Two of the men quickly emerged from the freezing water, but the other remained under water for 15 minutes until he was rescued. Sadly, updated reports indicate that this 27-year-old man from Southbridge, MA, though rushed to the hospital, did not survive the freezing temperatures. Our sympathies are with his family and friends.
A second incident, according to media reports, occurred today in Arlington, when firefighters rescued two adults and a child who had fallen through ice. The three individuals were apparently about 25-30 feet from shore at Spy Pond-a popular skating area in the winter-even though the pond had not fully frozen over. The health conditions of the adults and child are not yet known.
As public officials have done, we urge you to take extreme precautions when engaging in outdoor winter activities. Despite the pleasures of outdoor ice skating, indoor rinks may be the only always-reliable skating rinks. Icy and snowy conditions, when combined with poor judgment and risky behaviors, can result in serious injuries, including hypothermia, brain damage, broken bones, and death. Enjoy the snow, but enjoy it with care!
If you believe you have unfairly suffered poor health or injury from a winter weather accident in Massachusetts-for instance, due to the negligence of others or a failure to warn about dangerous conditions-an experienced Boston and Cambridge personal injury attorney can help you seek financial recovery.
Three rescued by Arlington firefighters after falling through the ice in Spy Pond, police say, January 22, 2012.
Southbridge man, 27, dies after falling through ice while snowmobiling at Dudley pond, Boston.com, January 22, 2012.
Three people fall through ice while snowmobiling in Dudley, Fox 25/MyFoxBoston.com, January 21, 2012.