Teenagers Hospitalized after Falling through Ice

BARRINGTON, RI—The potential for peril in the cold was painfully acute in Barrington on Monday night after three teenagers fell through the ice at a local pond and a firefighter’s water-rescue suit leaked and quickly lowered his core body temperature.

All three were transported to the hospital and treated for hypothermia. 

The three boys reportedly went onto the ice and got about 75 yards out before the ice broke beneath them. One boy was able to climb on top of the ice and get to shore where he called 911. The other two were able to get themselves out about 10 to 15 minutes later.

Firefighters said the call came in at around 6 p.m. and crews had to contend with darkness and very cold conditions.

The ice on the pond was unsafe and no-skating signs were posted. Officials said the ice was not thick enough to be safe despite the extreme cold gripping the state over the past few days.

Firefighters reportedly found hockey sticks near where the boys fell through the ice.