2 Men Rescued From Frigid North Shore Pond After Canoe Capsize

TOPSFIELD, MA — North Shore officials are issuing warnings to early season boaters after two men were rescued from the frigid waters of a Topsfield pond this weekend.

The Topsfield Fire Department said crews responded to the pond after a report of a capsized canoe and two men in the water early Saturday morning. Topsfield, Ipswich and Boxford crews arrived to the pond, along with Atlantic Ambulance and Action Ambulance Service, where emergency crews were able to rescue the men with the help of nearby residents.

"The young men were very fortunate that there were alert neighbors in the area," Topsfield fire said.

Topsfield fire said the two men, and their canoe, were pulled to shore and were evaluated before refusing further medical attention.

"This great outcome reminds us of the importance of wearing life jackets anytime on the water," Topsfield fire said.

The Topsfield Fire Department issued an advisory of steps those on the water should take — especially early in the season when the water is still so cold.

Those include wearing a life jacket, dressing for the temperature of the water (not the air), ensuring any vessel is in good, operating condition, and never boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol.