A Maine man was saved by Game Wardens after he fell through the ice into frigid waters.
Maine Man is Saved By a Game Warden and Ice Fisherman After Falling Through the Ice
David Beaudoin was fortunate that a Warden was within earshot when he broke through the ice around 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday. The 68-year-old was on the opposite side of Clearwater Pond from Game Warden Cody York, who was checking on Industry resident Miles Pelletier, who was ice fishing.
The Industry Man Was Extremely Hypothermic and Unable to Move or Talk
Warden York and Mr. Pelletier heard Beaudoin’s cries for help, but a scan of the shoreline revealed nothing unusual. As a precaution, they drove to Moes Cove Road, where they heard the yelling.
When they arrived, they discovered that Beaudoin had broken through the ice about fifteen feet from shore and was in over his head. The two men attached a rope to Beaudoin and dragged him to safety.
According to officials, Mr. Beaudoin was extremely hypothermic and unable to move or speak after being submerged in the frigid waters. He was transferred to the Warden’s truck to warm up until the Farmington/Industry EMS ambulance arrived and transported him to a nearby hospital.
Warden York followed up with his family later, who informed him that the 68-year-old was alert and eating as a result of his rescuers’ quick thinking.
Game Wardens are Warning Mainers to Check the Ice Thickness Frequently
The Maine Warden Service urges people to check the ice before going out. It is not enough to check it once; officials recommend checking it every few feet because frozen shorelines do not guarantee stability further out on the ice.