Published by Raymond Ray
Article by Malia Dietz
At approximately 3:00 pm on Sunday, scanner traffic indicated that the San Bernardino County Sheriff, Big Bear Station along with the California Highway Patrol had dispatched units to reports of 50-60 men, women and children walking on a frozen section of Big Bear Lake.
Photos from social media taken near the dam, the deepest side of the lake, show the ice walkers and how far out on the ice they ventured… children and all. It was a recurring issue throughout the day but this particular time was a peak incident.
Law enforcement units were seen accessing the lake from different points after the reports came in. As of press time, the Public Information Officer for the Big Bear Station could not be reached for a statement.
Signs and flyers have been posted liberally around the lake prohibiting the public from walking on the ice. Up to 500 dollars in fines can be issued to each person violating San Bernardino County Code 52.0502.
Each year, the San Bernardino County Sheriff Department, in conjunction with San Bernardino County Fire and the Big Bear Fire Department, join together and engage in ice rescue training. At times, other agencies may join in on the training such as Cal Fire, Running Springs Fire Department, CHP and even local Search and Rescue groups.
A chosen “victim demonstrator” will don a wet suit and literally walk out until he breaks through the ice. At times they may just break through intentionally depending on the thickness of the ice. Emergency Crews will swiftly use special equipment to access and rescue the acting ice victim.
Ice rescues are not only dangerous for the victims. First responders are subjected to extreme danger in any rescue situation and ice rescues are no exception. First responders have been lost during ice rescues in the past and repeated training helps protect our emergency crews.
On Sunday, people still ignored the signs and walked out onto the frozen lake. Aside from the dozens of tourists who were out there with their children, one man was seen carrying a baby out on the thin lake ice.
How many tickets were issued, if any.
I was wondering the same thing. I am guessing none were issued. We don’t want to keep the tourists away, what a joke.
I hope they were totally find per person on that lake and try also for child endangerment
If it hits a persons pocket it will be well remembered .
Thank you for our law enforcement and for the difficult job that you have you are respected and loved by this American Citizen thank you God bless you all
I hope they actually got a $500 fine !!!!!