News

Ocean Pines, MD – January 29, 2025 – At approximately 4:22 p.m. on Wednesday, the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department (OPVFD) was dispatched to a reported water rescue in the area of 896 Ocean Parkway. Upon arrival, crews located a 15-year-old minor stranded on a small island in the middle of Off Shore Lake.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, volunteer and career members of OPVFD swiftly formulated a rescue plan. The department deployed its Water Rescue trailer, equipped with specialized tools for ice rescues. Firefighters donned Ice Rescue Suits and utilized a Rescue Alive Sled to safely navigate the frozen surface and retrieve the minor.

Once brought back to solid ground, the minor was evaluated by Ocean Pines Paramedics and, fortunately, did not require further medical treatment.

Ice Safety Tips

As temperatures drop and bodies of water freeze, OPVFD urges residents to follow these essential ice safety guidelines:

• No ice is 100% safe. Always assume that ice conditions can change rapidly.
• Stay off the ice unless it's tested. Ice thickness should be at least 4 inches for walking and 5-7 inches for snowmobiles or ATVs.
• Never go alone. Always have a buddy and let someone know your plans.
• Avoid ice near moving water. Streams, inlets, and areas with currents freeze unevenly and can be dangerously thin.
• Carry ice rescue tools. If venturing onto ice, bring safety gear such as ice picks, rope, and a life jacket.
• If you fall through: Stay calm, try to keep your head above water, and use your elbows to get onto the ice. Kick while pulling yourself out, then roll to safety.
• If someone else falls in: Call 911 immediately. Do not attempt a direct rescue—extend a rope, branch, or use a rescue device if available.

The Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department reminds the community to stay vigilant near frozen bodies of water. If you see someone in distress on the ice, call 911 right away and wait for trained emergency responders.

For more information, visit OPVFD.com

Contact:
Joe Enste, Public Information Officer
Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department
Email: [email protected] | Phone: 443-614-2717