City officials, firefighters urge public to avoid frozen waterways as warmer weather melts ice
By Ben Cox
Photos/Special to The Source
The City of Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Fire Department are urging residents to stay off all ice-covered ponds, lakes and waterways due to rapidly changing temperatures and dangerous conditions.
Warming temperatures significantly weaken ice, even when it appears solid. Ice conditions can deteriorate quickly, creating a serious risk of falling through without warning. Such incidents can lead to life-threatening emergencies and place both the public and first responders in danger.
Over the past three weeks, the Jacksonville Fire Department has been conducting ice rescue training to ensure crews are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies on frozen waterways. While firefighters are trained and equipped for these situations, prevention remains the safest approach.
Residents are strongly advised to:
- Avoid walking, skating or recreating on any ice-covered bodies of water.
- Keep children and pets away from frozen ponds, retention basins, creeks and lakes.
- Never attempt a rescue if someone falls through the ice. Call 911 immediately and wait for trained emergency responders.
- Use only designated trails and approved recreation areas. Do not assume ice is safe based on appearance or past conditions.
The City of Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Fire Department ask for the public’s cooperation in exercising caution and sharing this safety message with family and neighbors as weather conditions change. For emergencies, dial 911. For additional safety information, follow official City of Jacksonville and Jacksonville Fire Department Facebook pages.
