Several Vermont first-response agencies worked to rescue five ice skaters that became stranded on Lake Champlain after a section of ice broke apart off Charlotte on Tuesday, February 3rd.
According to the Vermont State Police, the incident was first reported around 11:45am. Responders first established an incident command post at the Charlotte Town Beach, launching a joint operation to rescue the skaters who were stuck approximately 675 yards, or 2025 feet, off shore.
A crew took an inflatable boat across around 200 yards of open water to reach the skaters, returning them one by one to a section of the ice that was still stable. The skaters were able to walk safely to shore from there.
EMS staff evaluated all skaters and reported no injuries or medical concerns. Three other skaters apparently reached safety on their own by heading west to the New York side of the lake.
Vermont State Police reminds the public that Vermont’s ice can be unstable and unsafe this time of year, especially newly formed ice on the Broad Lake section of Lake Champlain which is not yet fully frozen over. Those venturing onto the ice should ensure they are dressed appropriately, are carrying tools for self-rescue in case they break through the ice, and have checked the ice to make sure it’s thick enough to support their weight.
