
Massachusetts Issues Thin Ice Warnings
We're expecting some frigid temperatures here on the SouthCoast over the next few days. New England cold snaps like this often inspire people, particularly young ones, to skate on ponds or lakes. However, knowing when these natural bodies of water are frozen enough to safely walk or skate on is a tricky proposition.
My father-in-law reminisces about regularly walking across the Acushnet River in the winter to get to Fairhaven from New Bedford. He recalls that the water was colder down by the textile mills on Coggeshall Street back then because it was before the installation of the hurricane barrier (which keeps warmer water in place).
Kids regularly skated and played hockey on ponds and lakes all over Massachusetts when I was a boy. I was one of those kids, but outdoor skating didn’t come without stern warnings from my parents and grandparents. They hated the idea and always insisted an adult check the ice first.
Even as an adult, I honestly don’t know how to test if ice is safe on a pond or lake. It led me to dig up some info. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife has shared several useful tips for determining ice safety. The agency approaches the issue from a gaming and fishing perspective, particularly for those who enjoy ice fishing.
While they offer more in-depth advice, the DFW provides a simple rhyme to remember ice safety:
When fishing on ice, take great care,
Check the thickness before you dare.
If it's thin, stay away,
Wait to fish another day.
Here are additional warnings from Mass.gov regarding ice safety.
Massachusetts Thin Ice Testing Tips
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