PIERCE — Pierce Fire and Rescue on Monday reminded the public that ice conditions are rapidly deteriorating and to use EXTREME caution if going on ice!
The water rescue team was dispatched to Willow Lake this week- end. Two ice fishers were there and observed good, 13 inch ice.
They then moved to another spot less than 50 feet away and encoun- tered ice around five inches and unfortunately, the ice broke on them. They experienced extremely rapidly deteriorating ice and had to abandon the UTV, their gear, and the shack.
It is important to note that these were very experienced fishermen who have several decades of experience on the ice.
They know the conditions and how to read conditions. This incident happened very quickly.
Thankfully, all parties involved are alive and well, which we are extremely grateful for. The names of the parties involved will not be released.
However, they have given permission for these photos and their story to be shared.
Pierce Fire and Rescue thanks the Nebraska Game and Parks for their part in the recovery process.
