Ice rescues take place in Arlington, Shrewsbury

Several people fell through the ice in Arlington and Shrewsbury on Monday, prompting a response from local authorities.

Just before 7:30 a.m., Shrewsbury police responded to reports that two people had fallen through the ice at Dean Park Pond, the department said in a news release. Police and firefighters from Shrewsbury were joined by EMS personnel from Worcester at the scene.

On arrival they found two people who had fallen through the ice, but were skating towards the shoreline. They had been skating on the dam and fell through somewhere near the middle, officials said. First responders assisted them to the shoreline and transported them to local hospitals for treatment.

The Arlington Fire Department said in a social media post that firefighters responded to an ice rescue call at Arlington Reservoir on Monday.

“The only safe ice is indoor ice at the rink,” the Arlington Fire Department said in its statement.

A Lexington official said Boston 25 News that a teenage boy fell through the ice at the reservoir around 4 p.m. The boy’s father was there, but could not pull him out. First responders from Arlington and Lexington were able to save the boy. He was reportedly evaluated by paramedics and is expected to recover.

Arlington and Lexington officials could not be reached for comment Tuesday.

Shrewsbury Police offered a number of tips to avoid dangerous situations like these. Clear, blue ice is strong and usually safe, while white, opaque ice is weaker and thinner, they said. Gray or dark ice is unsafe, as it indicates that the surface is melting.

People should check for cracks, slush or open water before venturing out onto any ice, officials said. They should avoid going near any areas with moving water. Carrying ice picks, ropes and whistles is encouraged. People who go out on the ice should never do it alone, they added.