Fire Department

Two people were rescued from the icy waters of Cherokee Lake, near Burning Wood Way, by the Madison Fire Department Lake Rescue Team.

The department was called there Saturday afternoon after two people ventured on to the thin ice and fell through the surface approximately 150 feet off shore. The water depth was up to their chests, and they were unable to get themselves out.

The Lake Rescue team deployed their Rapid Deployment Craft, secured each individual to the device, and returned to shore to be evaluated by paramedics. The patients did not require hospital transport.

The Madison Fire Department reminds everyone that our local lakes are not yet ready for wintertime activities. With unseasonably warm and/or above-freezing temperatures in our area, it may be some time yet before the ice is thick enough to accommodate ice fishing and other activities.

Pictured:
- Medic 10 assists the MFD Lake Rescue Team with deploying the RDC (Rapid Deployment Craft)
- Wide view of the Lake Rescue Team proceeding toward the patients
- Close-up view of two Lake Rescue Team members taking the RDC across the ice

NOTE: This report previously reported the individuals were rescued from the Yahara River. The report has been updated to reflect that they were actually on Cherokee Lake.