'It Hasn't Been Cold Long Enough': Thin Ice Warning In RI

Arctic temperatures have gripped southern New England over the past few days, brining temperatures in the low 20s and teens and below-zero wind chills. Despite the frigid weather, Rhode Island firefighters warned residents that most ponds and lakes are not safe for skating.

"Stay off the ice — it's not safe," the East Greenwich firefighter's union said over the weekend. "Although it's been cold, it hasn't been cold long enough."

According to the union, fire departments around the state have received calls for people and animals that fell through the ice.

Rhode Island's State Parks Department said "there is no such thing as 100 percent safe ice," even if it looks or feels thick enough.

"You cannot tell the strength of the ice simply by its looks and thickness, the daily temperature, or whether or not the ice is covered with snow," the department said.

Ice strength is affected by a variety of factors, including whether the water is salt or fresh, weather fluctuations, water currents, the size or depth of the body of water, the distribution of the weight placed on the ice and more.

Before heading out into the ice, follow these tips:

1. Never assume the ice is safe.
2. The only safe ice is at a rink.
3. Never skate on an untested lake or pond.
4. The ice should have minimum of at least six inches of thickness.
5. Never skate alone.
6. Only skate during the day or if an area is illuminated.
7. Know the body of water, nearby street and where the nearest location is to go for help.
8. Never use ice for a shortcut.
9. Never go out onto the ice after an animal or toy.

If an ice emergency happens, call 911 immediately. Do not try to rescue the victim, instead try to reassure them and keep them calm. If possible, offer the victim something to help keep them afloat, such as a spare tire or a plastic milk jug or toss them something like a rope or ladder if they are stable and it is safe to do so.

If you are able to get the person out of the water, keep them warm until help arrives by changing their clothes or wrapping them in blankets or towels.