VERNON, CT — A recreational outing nearly turned tragic on Christmas Day when a woman fell through the ice on Bolton Lake in Vernon, Connecticut.
Local authorities report that the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with wintertime activities on frozen lakes.
The Vernon Fire Department responded swiftly to the scene after receiving a distress call about the woman at 10 a.m. on Wednesday morning.
The rescue team arrived at 55 Llynwood Drive (between Lower and Middle Bolton Lake), where an adult woman in her 50s was trapped in the ice-cold waters.
Life-saving measures were initiated on-site. The woman was then transported to a local hospital for evaluation, though her condition remains undisclosed at this time.
Authorities credit the rapid response of the caller and the teamwork of emergency personnel for rescuing the woman.
Conditions Leading to the Incident
This incident occurred during a period of fluctuating temperatures in the region, which may have compromised the ice’s stability.
Ice thickness is crucial for safety, and experts recommend at least 4 inches of clear, solid ice for activities such as fishing or skating.
Reports suggest that the ice on Bolton Lake may not have been uniformly thick, creating hazardous spots.
Emergency Response and Preparedness
The Vernon Fire Department’s timely response highlights the importance of being prepared for ice emergencies. If someone falls through the ice, authorities advise the following steps:
- Call 911 immediately to get professional help on the way.
- Do not approach the hole directly, as the surrounding ice may also be weak.
- Use a long object such as a branch, rope, or ladder to reach the person while staying on solid ground.
- Encourage the victim to kick their feet and use their arms to pull themselves onto the ice.
A Reminder to Respect Nature
As winter sets in and outdoor enthusiasts flock to frozen lakes for fishing, skating, or hiking, the Bolton Lake incident underscores the need for vigilance.
While frozen waters offer incredible recreational opportunities, they demand respect and caution.
For ice anglers eager to get out this season, take this as a moment to double-check your safety gear, knowledge, and plans before venturing out.
Your preparation could be the difference between a fun day on the ice and a life-threatening situation.
Stay safe, and may this holiday season bring not only memorable catches but also a commitment to enjoying the ice responsibly.
Lessons for Ice Anglers and Recreational Visitors
For ice anglers and others who venture onto frozen lakes, this serves as a critical wake-up call.
Even experienced outdoors enthusiasts can misjudge the safety of ice.
Here are some essential tips to consider:
ip #1: Always check ice thickness
The first and most important thing is always to check the thickness of the ice!
Generally speaking, you should stay off ice that’s less than 4 inches thick. PERIOD!
Personally, I prefer six inches, just in case, but four will generally do, though. However, you must check the ice on your way out constantly.
Four inches of ice can quickly turn into two or one inch. And boom, you’re going through!
Please keep that in mind, especially when it comes to first ice. I know the urge to head out there for the first time is strong, but that first ice fishing trip surely isn’t worth your life, is it?
The Minnesota DNR has good guidelines for new ice thickness. But remember: no matter how solid or thick it might be, no ice is 100% safe!
Ice thickness guidelines for new, clear ice
| Under 4″ | Stay off! |
| 4″ | Ice fishing or other activities on foot |
| 5″ – 7″ | Snowmobile or small ATV |
| 7” – 8” | Side-by-side ATV |
| 9” – 10” | Small car or SUV |
| 11” – 12” | Medium SUV or small truck |
| 13”- 15” | Medium truck |
| 16” – 17” | Heavy-duty truck |
| 20”+ | Heavy-duty truck with wheelhouse shelter |
Tip #2: Trust your spud bar
A spud bar or ice chisel is probably your most important tool on the ice! It’ll help you check the thickness and compactness of the ice.
Personally, I wouldn’t head out without one. It’s really vital!
A spud bar allows you to test the ice quickly and frequently, saving you time and energy, as you won’t have to drill dozens of holes with your auger.
For thinner ice, between 4 and 6 inches, you can even use it to make your holes. This way, you skip carrying around that heavy ice auger and build some extra muscle.
One or two hits with your heavy spud bar, in the same exact spot, the ice is usually 2 inches thick.
Four or more hits in the same spot, it’s usually about 4 inches of ice, and you should be able to fish it.
Tip #3: Always wear ice picks
Never go on the ice without wearing that good old trusted pair of ice picks around your neck!
If, God forbid, you should fall through, these things can end up saving your life!
Without them, you might never be able to pull yourself out of the water and onto the ice.
So please don’t take them off while ice fishing. That’s not the point of bringing them!
There’s also an important psychological aspect to consider here, as ice picks can give you peace of mind by simply wearing them.
Tip #4: Don’t go ice fishing alone
This is a great safety tip for early ice that you might be uncertain about.
The buddy system can ensure that your friend or friends can help you in case of an emergency or that you can help your friend or friends!
Making your way back onto the ice alone can sometimes be an impossibility. Having someone around who could help you or quickly get help can make all the difference!
Besides, it’s always more fun to go fishing together with your buddies.
