Police Reminder: No Ice Skating on Town-Owned Ponds

Screen Shot 2015-01-09 at 4.39.13 PM

Many people in Greenwich remember skating outdoors on Town-owned ponds. The history books feature townspeople of all ages skating on Ten Acre Swamp, now known as the GHS campus.

But, the Town stopped allowing skating on Town-owned ponds for safety reasons.

Last January, the Greenwich Fire Dept rescued two young boys who fell through the ice on a pond in Riverside. And yet, children and adults are attracted to ice on reservoirs and ponds during the winter months, and tend to underestimate the risks.

If you see someone who has fallen through the ice, do not walk out to them, police advise. You may become another victim.

Instead try to reach them with a tree branch, rope, or shovel, anything that you can place between you and the victim and have them grab onto it. Then as quickly as you can get help!

There is No Skating or walking on the ice in any Town of Greenwich owned park.

The town maintains fully enclosed ice skating facility offering a wide variety of winter programs including group lessons, hockey clinics, youth and men’s hockey leagues, a Town-wide Figure Skating Competition, general skating sessions and more. The rink has completed renovations to improve user comfort, safety and accessibility.

Screen Shot 2015-01-09 at 4.46.16 PM

Back in the day, Dorothy Hamill started out as an open air rink. Then a roof was added. Finally, the rink was enclosed. This black and white photo is visible on the wall inside the rink today.

Dorothy Hamill Ice Skating Rink on Sherman Avenue Tel: (203) 531-8560

Screen Shot 2015-01-09 at 4.51.20 PMWinter Storms
Every year winter storms and below zero temperatures give rise to weather-related emergencies. Everyone is potentially at risk, however the actual threat to you depends on your specific situation. Avoid overexertion, such as shoveling heavy snow, pushing a car, or walking in deep snow. The strain from the cold and the hard labor may cause a heart attack. Sweating could lead to a chill and hypothermia. The cold weather can present serious problems. A little careful planning, preparedness and common sense can help prevent many of these problems and make your winter a lot safer.

Prepare Before the Storm Strikes
Plan your travel and check the latest weather reports to avoid the storm! Have your vehicle fully checked and winterized before the winter season begins. Carry a Winter Storm Survival Kit.

Power Lines Downed
Another common winter hazard is power lines being downed due to ice storms or high winds. Wires should always be considered Live and Dangerous and must be avoided. Never try and move a branch touching a power line. Please notify the police department and electric company immediately.