Wollman Rink, Central Park. Photo © JF
As temperatures continue to drop, NYC Parks urges parkgoers to exercise caution while near lakes, ponds, and rivers in New York City’s parks this winter. New Yorkers are reminded to follow ice safety guidelines and to stay off water bodies that appear frozen – they are likely not, and venturing onto them is extremely dangerous.
Parks also shares the agency’s Ice Safety Tips:
• Never walk on water bodies that appear frozen.
• Parents and caregivers should make sure children are never unattended near iced-over water bodies.
• If you hear the ice cracking, lie down immediately to try to distribute your weight.
• If you witness someone falling through ice, call 911 immediately – never attempt to make a rescue by yourself. Be sure to give the exact location and an account of the incident.
There are more than 150 miles of shoreline and 96 bodies of water within our park system. To remind New Yorkers of the dangers of thin ice, NYC Parks posts warning signs along the perimeter of the City’s lakes and ponds and installs special ladders for use in the event of an emergency.
Ice skating rinks offer a safe and fun way to enjoy the winter weather. For ice skating in New York City parks, check out NYC Parks’ website for our list of Parks’ rinks.
