Every winter, the Maryland Natural Resources Police and first responders rescue people who have fallen through the ice or are stranded on a piece of ice far from shore. If you should decide to venture out on ice, please make sure to adhere to the following tips:
- Always let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return. Never go out alone.
- Wear a life vest under your winter coat, it will improve your survival odds if you fall in.
- Never walk or ice fish unless there is at least 4 inches of clear, solid ice underfoot.
- Be aware of stream inlets and outlets. Ice can vary in thickness due to the erosive action of the underlying current.
- Carrying a couple of large nails, ice picks or wooden-handle screwdrivers will give you a way to pull yourself back onto the ice if you fall through.
- In case someone accidentally falls through the ice, a nylon rope or walking stick will help you pull someone else out.
To report people, pets or wildlife that have fallen through the ice, call either 911 or the Natural Resources Police dispatch center at 410-260-8888.
