01/28/2026
🚨 URGENT SAFETY WARNING: NO ICE IS SAFE ICE 🚨
The Germantown Fire Department has received multiple reports this morning of children on frozen ponds and lakes across the city. This is extremely dangerous and could quickly become life-threatening.
Despite the cold temperatures, ponds, lakes and pools are NOT frozen solid and cannot support weight. Even if the surface looks frozen, the ice is thin, unstable and can break without warning. A fall through the ice can lead to rapid cold-water immersion and hypothermia within minutes.
Please keep children and pets completely away from frozen water. Do not walk, play or attempt to test the ice under any circumstances.
If you see someone on the ice, call non-emergency dispatch at (901) 754-7222 or *54 from a cell phone so responders can address the situation safely. If someone has fallen into the water, call 911 immediately.
This is a serious safety issue. One moment of curiosity can result in a tragedy. Please talk with your children today and help us keep everyone safe.