In December, NYS Environmental Conservation Officer Jared Woodin responded to a call from a motorist who reported seeing a whitetail deer laying on the ice on Spring Lake in the town of Delhi in Delaware County.
Officer Woodin arrived at the location and observed the deer approximately 100 yards from shore.
The ECO determined the ice was too thin to walk on and contacted local authorities to obtain resources to rescue the animal.
Shortly thereafter, a concerned citizen ran onto the ice with a snow tube from the other side of the lake. Officer Woodin said he instructed the individual to stop but the person fell through the ice and clung to the snow tube in the frigid water.
ECO Woodin immediately contacted Delaware County Emergency Services about the new emergency.
The ECO, Delaware County Emergency Services personnel, and local fire department members rescued the individual from the cold water and ensured his safety before turning their attention back to the deer still on the ice.
Officer Woodin and local firefighters used a boat to successfully tow the animal to shore.
Ice Safety
DEC has been reminding recreationists to be safe around ice this season, especially given recent variations in weather conditions.
Always be aware of essential safety guidelines and make sure ice is thick enough before heading out.
Before leaving shore, check the thickness of ice. Four inches of solid, clear ice is usually safe for a person to access ice on foot. However, ice thickness can vary between waterbodies and even within the same waterbody, increasing the need to ensure thickness periodically.
Be particularly cautious of areas of moving water and around boat docks and houses where bubblers may be installed to reduce ice from forming.
Checking the ice can easily be done with an auger or “spud bar” (a long, metal tool with a chisel on one end) at various spots. Local bait and tackle shops are a great resource for finding out where there is safe ice. In addition, recreating with family and friends is also encouraged for safety.
Photo: ECO Woodin and volunteer firefighters in Delaware County rescue a deer in the town of Delhi (DEC).
Read more wildlife rescues here.
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