JAMES CITY COUNTY — Recent cold weather has created some unusual conditions — including the icing of several ponds — which is not typical of our area. As ponds begin to ice, pets and people can find themselves in a dangerous situation if they step out onto what appears to be a solid surface.
Recently, James City County (JCC) witnessed the dangers of thin ice and courageous heroism.
Local Teens Recognized by JCC Board of Supervisors for Life Saving
On the afternoon of Jan. 25, three teenagers in Green Springs West witnessed two young boys wandering along the icy shore of the neighborhood pond.
With temperatures having plummeted to freezing or below for weeks, the conditions on the pond had become extremely dangerous.
Colin Fitzgerald, Ana Hiu, and Alexa Hiu watched as the fourth-grade boys broke through the ice in freezing water estimated to be 15 to 20 feet deep.
The teens ran to aid the struggling boys, calling both their parents and the James City County 911 Center before jumping into the fridge water themselves.
Alexa and Ana, seniors at Jamestown High School, are both trained lifeguards and Colin, a senior at Warhill High School, is a member of his school’s swim team.
The five youngsters, who were not able to climb out of the frigid water unaided, battled the biting cold and the imminent threat of hypothermia. With the support of their parents, family, and neighbors who quickly mobilized to assist, a creative solution emerged.
Using available extension cords, the group fashioned a makeshift tow rope. This ingenious idea provided the necessary lifeline, allowing the rescuers to pull the two stranded boys and Colin, Alexa and Ana safely back to shore.
By the time emergency services arrived, all five had been brought to safety and were warming up in the shelter of the teenagers’ home.
“The quick thinking, resourcefulness, and teamwork demonstrated during this rescue not only averted a potential tragedy but also underscored the spirit of community and heroism. Indeed, these teenagers — and the community that supported them — proved that courage and collaboration can light the way even in the darkest, coldest of times,” stated Green Springs West community member Bob Tubbs, who asked the JCC Board of Supervisors to recognize the teens’ bravery.
At the Feb. 11 JCC Board of Supervisors meeting, all three teens were presented with a certificate of life-saving recognition.
Board member Ruth Larson said, “You really did life save and I hope this is something you will always remember. Obviously, you are young people who will step in and we need people like you. You give us hope for the future. Thank you.”
JCC Fire Department Recognition
During the same meeting, the JCC Fire Department recognized several department members who aided in saving two dogs that broke through thin ice in the Stonehouse neighborhood.
Fire Chief Ryan Ashe told the board that on Jan. 27, the department received a call that two dogs were in the icy pond.
When the crew arrived, one dog had managed to get out of the pond. Captain Blake Hudgins entered the water to save the second animal.
Both dogs received emergency care and are doing well, stated Ashe.
“This is a good reminder that you may see ice and think it is ok to walk out on — but even with the cold temperatures — it is not enough to support weight. Not even dogs,” explained Ashe.
Watch the JCC Board of Supervisors February meeting to see both ceremonies.
