From the McHenry Township Fire Protection District:
Pistakee Lake Ice Rescues
On February 19, 2026, at approximately 3:14 p.m., the McHenry Township Fire Protection District (MTFPD) responded to a water rescue emergency where multiple people had fallen through thin ice on Pistakee Lake.
Crews arrived within six minutes and found three adult men, believed to be ice fishing, partially submerged and clinging to the ice in several areas of the lake.
Crews rapidly began rescue efforts by deploying firefighters in specialized ice rescue suits that protect them from the freezing water.
All three victims were safely rescued in under eight minutes.
Once on shore, MTFPD Paramedics immediately began ALS care and transported the victims to a local hospital in stable condition.
No injuries to firefighters were reported.
The MTFPD would like to remind the public that recent temperatures have significantly compromised the ice on frozen ponds, lakes, and rivers. The public is advised to stay off and avoid what appears to be frozen waterways.
