The weather might be warming in the Hudson Valley, but further north in New York, icy lakes are still proving dangerous for both humans and animals.

Knowing ice safety is one of the most important parts of enjoying an upstate winter, as its thickness determines who (or what) it can safely hold (learn the thickness for everything from humans to pickup trucks here).

An upstate New York police officer was celebrated after rescuing a dog that became stranded on a partially-frozen lake (Lewiston Police Department via Facebook/Canva)
An upstate New York police officer was celebrated after rescuing a dog that became stranded on a partially-frozen lake (Lewiston Police Department via Facebook/Canva)
loading...

Thawing Lakes Creating Hazardous Conditions in New York

As temperatures begin to rise, once-frozen lakes and ponds start to thaw, creating perilous conditions on surfaces that may have been safe just days before. Recently, an upstate dog owner learned that fact the hard way. Luckily, first responders were nearby to help.

Officer Smith of the Lewiston Police Department rescuing a dog stranded on Bond Lake (Lewiston Police Department via Facebook)
Officer Smith of the Lewiston Police Department rescuing a dog stranded on Bond Lake (Lewiston Police Department via Facebook)
loading...

CBS News Shares Video of New York Police Officer Rescuing Dog

While the original video dates back to 2022, CBS News' 48 Hours recently re-shared the footage that shows an officer running with abandon towards a dog that had become trapped in the frigid waters on the partially-frozen Bond Lake (below).

Lewiston Police Department Recognizes Heroic Officer

"Well folks he’s done it again. After just receiving a department award for pulling a woman from a burning house, this time it was a 4-legged friend", began the original post from the Lewiston Police Department (below).

Though several years old, the video serves as an important reminder about ice safety. With several fatal ice accidents across New York State in recent years, knowledge is the best defense against future tragedies. Learn more here, and check out more dog rescues below.

City of Newburgh Firefighters Save Dog on Frozen Hudson River

Lilly, the dog needed a little help from Truck 1 and the City of Newburgh Fire Department back on February 11th. Thankfully, she was returned to her owners without injury. Round of ap-PAWS for the City of Newburgh Fire Department for their quick response and heroic efforts.

Gallery Credit: Timothy Dexter

Firefighters Work Together to Rescue Dog Stuck on Frozen Ice

Three emergency response teams in Onondaga County worked together to rescue a dog that became trapped on the ice after chasing some geese.

Gallery Credit: Credit - Polly McAdams

More From WPDH-WPDA