Community
Ice Safety Message
Some winter enthusiasts can't wait to skate on the many lakes in Denville, however you must exercise caution before venturing out onto the ice to ensure your safety. Be sure to follow these tips before heading out.
- Know the condition of the ice before you go out and take into consideration the recent changes the weather may have had on the ice.
- Be suspicious of gray, dark or porous spots in the ice as these may be soft areas. Ice is generally strongest where it is hard and blue.
- White opaque or snow ice is half as strong as blue ice. Opaque ice is formed by wet snow freezing on the ice.
- Grey ice is unsafe.
- Tell someone your plans, where you will be, with whom and what time you are expected back at shore.
- Watch for pressure cracks, open bodies of water and ice flows as these are sure signs ice is not safe and should be avoided.
- If you get into trouble on ice and you're by yourself resist the immediate urge to climb back out where you fell in as the ice will be weak in this area.
- Reach forward onto the broken ice without pushing down. Kick your legs to push your torso on the ice.
- When you are back on the ice, crawl on your stomach or roll away from the open area with your arms and legs spread out as far as possible to evenly distribute your body weight. Do not stand up! Look for shore and make sure you are going in the right direction.
- If someone falls through the ice IMMEDIATELY CALL 911. Then, if you are unable to reach that person from shore, throw them something (rope, tree branch, etc.) If this does not work, go for help, but do not attempt to go out onto the ice to rescue them. Get medical assistance for the victim immediately.
Address/Location
Denville Police Department
1 St Marys Pl
Denville, NJ 07834
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 973-627-4900