Game wardens are urging anyone accessing Maine’s lake and ponds to exercise extreme caution. Following yesterday’s rescue of three people from Long Pond in Southwest Harbor, at least nine more people reported breaking through thin ice on snowmobiles in the last 24-hour period. 

Belgrade: The latest incident occurred earlier this evening, Jan. 18, on Long Lake in Belgrade where two men broke through thin ice and nearly drowned. Caleb Moore, 18, of Belgrade was operating a Ski-Doo snowmobile with 17-year-old passenger Joshua Stevens, also of Belgrade. The two males went through the ice into Belgrade Stream at the outlet of Long Pond. Moore and Stevens were both transported to Maine General Medical Center in Augusta where they are in stable condition. 

Denmark: At around noon today, a Denmark man and his five-year-old daughter encountered a flooded portion of a snowmobile trail in that town. Stephen Glasgow, 44, and his daughter became submerged in icy water but escaped and managed to call for help; both showing signs of hypothermia when a game warden located them. They were transported to Bridgton Hospital for treatment. 

 Sangerville: Received today as a late report, two Guilford men broke through thin ice on Manhanock Pond in Sangerville late last evening, January 17. Brian Gaw, 52, and Jason Goggin, 47, were operating separate snowmobiles and both struggled to get to shore when their snowmobiles became submerged. Once at shore, the men were able to phone family for help. 

Warning: Rain and warm temperatures late last week deteriorated ice conditions significantly statewide. The recent return to cold temperatures should not relax the need for extreme caution on Maine’s waterways. These latest incidents are clear indications that ice conditions are very hazardous. Accessing lakes and ponds should be avoided unless operators can be certain of ice conditions. Those not familiar with ice conditions are encouraged to contact local snowmobile clubs for ice safety information.