Putnam Lake, NY - With the recent cold snap hitting the region, many residents are eager to get out and enjoy the winter weather. While walking on frozen lakes might seem like a fun and harmless activity, it can actually be extremely dangerous. To shed some light on this issue, we sat down with Michael Gagliardo, Chief of the Putnam Lake Fire Department, to discuss the risks associated with walking on frozen bodies of water.

Chief Gagliardo emphasized that walking on a frozen lake can be extremely risky, as the ice may be thin, unstable, or contain patches of open water. “One of the biggest dangers of walking on frozen lakes is falling through the ice,” he said. “This can lead to hypothermia, drowning, or other serious injuries.”

He also warned that it can be difficult to determine if ice is safe to walk on just by looking at it. “Ice thickness can vary greatly, even on the same body of water,” he explained. “Factors such as temperature, recent weather conditions, and snow cover can all affect the strength of the ice.” Chief Gagliardo recommended that anyone considering walking on a frozen lake should first check the thickness.

In the event that someone does fall through the ice, Chief Gagliardo stressed the importance of staying calm and calling for help immediately. “Do not try to rescue them yourself,” he advised. “Throw them a rope or something that can float, and call 911 for assistance.”

As a final precaution, Chief Gagliardo urged residents to never venture out onto frozen lakes alone. “Always go with a buddy, and make sure someone knows where you are and when you expect to return,” he said. “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to explore the winter wonderland of a frozen lake, it is important to remember the potential dangers that come with it. By following Chief Gagliardo's advice and taking necessary precautions, residents can safely enjoy all that winter has to offer.