DENMARK, Maine — Five people, including three children, were rescued after falling through ice in Denmark.
The Danish Fire Department said they responded to a call at Moose Pond late this afternoon after neighbors on nearby Hummingbird Lane heard screams in the darkness.
Officials said the UTV was traveling on ice when it fell off.
“They were all very cold, but very grateful,” said Danish volunteer firefighter Caitlin Callahan.
The water was shallow enough that all five men were able to stand on the roof of the UTV and remain mostly above the water.
The crew had to use dry suits and float sleds to reach them before rafting them back to shore.
Danish fire officials said the five people were extremely lucky to have been rescued at night in a very remote area.
“They were very lucky that someone heard it from shore,” Callaghan said.
Temperatures in Denmark remained below freezing for much of the afternoon, but authorities said the ice may have weakened.
“If you’re going to be out on the ice, be sure to test the ice. Some people fish moose ponds, but you’ll want to bring some kind of flotation device.” ,” said Denmark Fire Chief Chris Wentworth.
Maine game wardens and several local departments assisted in the rescue.