News

On Tuesday, February 3 at approximately 11:45 a.m., the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched for a reported animal trapped on the ice in the area of White Sail Circle.

Upon arrival, responders located a dog approximately 300 yards out on the Saint Martin River. Two firefighters, utilizing kayaks provided by good Samaritans, carefully deployed onto the icy water and successfully reached the animal. The dog was removed from the water and returned safely to shore.

Once on land, the dog was immediately transported to VCA Animal Hospital for further evaluation and care. The dog was found to be microchipped, allowing the owner—who was located in Bishopville on the opposite side of the river—to be quickly identified and notified. The owner was en route to the animal hospital at the time care was transferred to veterinary staff.

We would like to thank the good Samaritans who reported the incident and provided towels and assistance for both the dog and our responders.

Ice Safety Advisory

This incident serves as an important reminder that ice-covered waterways remain extremely dangerous, especially as temperatures begin to warm.

While ice may appear solid, warming weather weakens it from underneath. Sunlight, runoff, and moving water can rapidly thin ice even when surface temperatures remain cold.

Please remember:
• There is no such thing as “safe” ice
• Ice thickness can vary greatly across the same body of water
• Retention ponds, rivers, and canals are especially hazardous
• Areas near inlets, outlets, storm drains, and bridges weaken first
• Shorelines melt before the center, creating hidden weak spots
• Children and pets are at the highest risk

As temperatures rise:
• Ice becomes brittle and more likely to fracture
• What held weight yesterday may fail today
• Dark, slushy, or honeycombed ice indicates unsafe conditions

If a person or animal falls through the ice:
• Call 911 immediately
• Keep visual contact and shout for help
• Reach or throw an object (rope, ladder, stick) — do NOT go onto the ice
• Avoid becoming a second victim

Cold water shock can incapacitate a person or animal in seconds, making self-rescue extremely difficult. Many ice rescues result in multiple victims when bystanders attempt rescue without proper equipment.

The safest choice is to stay off all ice-covered waterways — especially during warming trends.

Please help keep our community safe by:
- Keeping children and pets off frozen ponds and rivers
- Respecting posted warning signs
- Sharing this message with family and neighbors

When in doubt — stay off the ice.