FDNY rescues 11-year-old boy who fell through ice in a pond in Queens.

An 11-year-old boy was rescued after falling through the icy surface of a pond in Springfield Park, Queens, on Friday afternoon. The incident occurred shortly before 3 p.m. as the boy plunged into the frigid waters near Springfield Boulevard and 146th Avenue.

At the time of the incident, the firefighters from Engine 311 and Ladder 158 were concluding a specialized ice-water-rescue training session when local children rushed in to seek assistance for the boy. Firefighters quickly mobilized, utilizing tethered ropes and ice picks. Probationary firefighter Shaun McMahon, designated as “Rescue Swimmer 1,” donned a cold-water suit for the operation.

McMahon attempted to navigate the icy surface by lying flat on the pond and using an ice pick to inch towards the stranded child. This strategy, however, quickly became precarious. The ice could not support McMahon’s weight, resulting in him falling through about halfway to the boy. The firefighter later described the water temperature as extremely cold and emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that while he was chilled, the boy was in an even more perilous condition.

Once in the water, McMahon swam towards the boy and signaled to his partner for assistance. However, challenges arose when they reached the ice shelf, as McMahon struggled to pull himself back onto the surface. With some effort and assistance from his partner, he managed to break through the ice and return to dry ground.

The rescued boy was promptly transported to a local hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition. Alongside the boy, another child, who had initially ventured close to shore, also required rescuing after attempting to throw a ladder to help his friend.

This incident at Springfield Park mirrors previous ice rescues in Queens, including a notable event earlier this year where three young men fell through ice in Jamaica Bay. On that occasion, the New York Police Department’s emergency rescue team employed helicopters to safely extract the victims from the icy waters.

In light of these incidents, the Fire Department has initiated a public safety campaign urging New Yorkers to stay off of frozen bodies of water. Officials reiterated the dangers associated with ice, stressing that no ice can be deemed completely safe. As temperatures fluctuate, the risk of ice-related accidents remains a significant concern for the community.

Media News Source highlights the necessity for continued awareness about the inherent dangers posed by ice-covered water, especially as warmer weather approaches.