January 6, 2026 — The Union Fire District of South Kingstown issued a winter safety reminder urging residents to be aware of the serious dangers posed by ice-covered ponds, lakes, and waterways. Fire officials emphasized that no ice is ever 100 percent safe, noting that ice strength cannot be judged by appearance or thickness alone. A variety of factors—including water depth, size of the body of water, currents, snow cover, ice age, water chemistry, and changing weather conditions—can significantly affect ice stability.

The department warned that falling through ice can be extremely dangerous and often fatal, and strongly advised the public to avoid walking or driving on frozen bodies of water. Residents were encouraged to educate themselves on proper response actions if someone falls through the ice and to review additional winter safety guidance available through Rhode Island State Parks.