Local Man Falls Through Ice

Firefighters responded to a water rescue in Columbia Wednesday after a man fell through the ice at a city park, and now they are issuing a warning for area residents. A man fell through the ice-covered pond at Twin Lakes Recreational Area Wednesday afternoon. His dog reportedly fell through the ice first, and then he followed as he tried to save his pet. He succeeded in getting the dog out of the water before the ice cracked underneath him, and he fell into the icy water. An off-duty Columbia police officer was in the area and came to help before other emergency crews arrived. Rescue workers took the man to the hospital because of the exposure to extreme elements. Firefighters expect him to be alright, bu say this is a good warning to everyone to stay off the ice, even if your pet falls in. Columbia Fire Captain John Metz says ice needs to be at least four inches thick before trying to walk on it. Metz added, the thickest ice around town is only about two inches thick right now, and currently melting. He says the safest course of action, if an animal falls in is to call 911 and let emergency personnel rescue your pet.