To Be Safe Best Advice Stay Off Icy Bay and Waterways

FOR EVERYONE'S SAFETY, Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari wants everyone to stay off the ice.

With more than 150 miles of inland bays and waterways in Ocean County, the recent cold snap is causing ice to form on many bodies of water.

However, the ice, according to Vicari, is not safe.

"There is no reason for anyone in this county to be on the icy bay or rivers at this time of year," Vicari said. "It's dangerous."

Vicari said if something is dropped onto the ice, just leave it. 

"Walking out to get it will not only endanger you but can also endanger the people that you may need to save you," Vicari said. 

Vicari said that first responders like police officers, emergency medical technicians, volunteer firefighters or just a neighbor or someone passing by can easily be put into harms' way should they need to rescue someone from the ice.

"For everyone's safety, it's important to just keep off the ice," Vicari said. "You don't know how the tides are running underneath it or how deep the water may be if it breaks."

Vicari also urged parents to advise their children to stay off the ice on the county's waterways.

"We need to work together to keep everyone safe this winter," Vicari said. 

Vicari said to call 911 if you see someone in danger on the ice.

"Taking the matter into your own hands may make the matter worse," he said.