Kids rescued after stranded on island after walking across icy creek in Oradell, NJ

ORADELL, New Jersey (WABC) — Two teenagers were rescued Friday night after becoming stranded on an island in Oradell, New Jersey, when thin ice prevented them from safely returning to shore.

Authorities said the teens had walked across the frozen creek to reach the island, but realized the ice was too unstable to cross again. Rather than risk falling through, they called for help.

Emergency responders arrived and began an ice rescue operation in near-dark, frigid conditions. One teen was brought back first, using a rescue boat and crawling techniques to spread weight across the ice. Rescuers then returned to the island, secured the second teen with a rope, and guided him carefully back to safety.

Both teens were safely removed from the creek and appeared uninjured.

Officials again warned the public that ice on local waterways may look solid but can be dangerously thin, especially during fluctuating winter temperatures.