Hartford, SD (KELO AM) - Three ice fishermen found out the hard way that the mild winter we have had is not making for ideal ice fishing conditions.
Fire rescue crews from Hartford and Humboldt as well as Ambulance and Sheriff crews were called to Scotts Slough near the intersection of 258th street and Scotts Ave for a report of a man who had fallen through the ice.
Once on the scene, officers found one man in the water about 100 yards north of the boat dock. Those on the scene said three men were fishing on the ice in two different locations. Once the first fisherman had fallen through the ice, a second fishermen attempted to offer assistance, however he also fell in the water.The third individual was able to rescue his fishing partner and get him safely to shore, leaving the first man in the water until help arrived.
Members of the Hartford Fire Department was able to bring the remaining fishermen back to shore with a rescue back-board.
The fishermen were checked on site and cleared by medical personnel. No injuries were reported.
The Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Department would like to remind fishermen of the dangers of the thin ice conditions in conjunction with the above average temperatures. We ask that you use extreme caution.