Massachusetts State Police warn against walking on the Charles River ice due to dangerous conditions, despite the cold weather.
Cambridge: It’s freezing out in Boston, but that doesn’t mean the ice on the Charles River is safe. Massachusetts State Police are urging everyone to stay off the ice. They’ve received multiple calls about people trying to walk across, and even areas that seem solid can be really dangerous.
Police dispatchers have been busy responding to reports of folks on the ice, with calls like, “Kids on the water on ice on Charles River” and “Skaters in the middle of the Charles.” Just one misstep could lead to a serious accident, which is why many runners and walkers are sticking to solid ground, even if it means a longer route.
Runner Jack Courtney shared his thoughts, calling it “dumb and not safe at all.” He pointed out that the ice might only be a couple of inches thick, which isn’t enough to support anyone’s weight. Another walker, Graham Sahagian, echoed those concerns, saying it could be a “death sentence” if someone falls through.
So, what makes the ice on the Charles River so risky? State police explain that the water beneath the ice can change depth daily, making it unpredictable. Trooper James DeAngelis noted that the water level can vary by up to two feet, creating air pockets under the ice. This means that walking on unsupported ice significantly raises the chances of falling through.
And it’s not just the river; people need to be cautious around lakes and ponds too. Just last week, first responders had to rescue a man and his dog from icy Lake Waban in Wellesley after the dog got loose. In Wareham, another man was found clinging to a kayak after falling through a frozen pond.
Trooper DeAngelis emphasized, “Stay off the ice.” He warned that the risks include hypothermia and drowning, and it’s not just about personal safety; first responders are also put in danger. If police see anyone on the ice, they’ll advise them to get off.