Ice Rescue Refresher Course for Southwest Iowa Fire Crews
Dozens of firefighters from various departments in southwest Iowa participated in an ice rescue training session last weekend, despite the bone-chilling weather settling in the region. Red Oak Fire Chief John Bruce emphasized the importance of staying sharp on ice rescue skills as they conducted their annual on-ice training workshop during the winter season.
Importance of Ice Rescue Training
Chief Bruce highlighted the critical nature of the ice rescue refresher course, especially considering the surge in ice fishing activities during the cold months. With ice rescues only necessary a few months out of the year, honing these skills becomes vital for firefighters to effectively respond to emergencies involving individuals falling through the ice.
“We want to make sure we’re honed up on these skills because you never know from moment to moment where you could be dispatched to,” Chief Bruce stressed the urgency of being prepared for any scenario.
Training Participants and Safety Measures
Nearly 40 firefighters from departments in Red Oak, Elliott, Grant, Villisca, Corning, Mount Ayr, Clarinda, and the Montgomery County Emergency Management Agency took part in the comprehensive ice rescue training session. Chief Bruce emphasized the importance of ensuring a minimum of four inches of ice on any water body before venturing out, urging individuals to verify ice thickness either through personal testing or communication with relevant authorities.
“Our religious ice fishing folks, they’ve fine-tuned their skills of being able to go out and hit the ice and they can tell by the sound it’s making whether it’s thick ice or not,” Chief Bruce shared insights from experienced ice enthusiasts within the community.
Safety Recommendations and Precautions
To minimize risks during ice fishing expeditions, the Iowa DNR recommended several safety precautions, including carrying hand warmers, ice cleats, ice picks, a life jacket, a floating safety rope, a whistle, a first aid kit, and extra dry clothes. Chief Bruce advised individuals to have a companion when venturing onto the ice, ensure someone knows their location, and be prepared to call 911 in case of emergencies.
In conclusion, the ice rescue refresher course serves as a crucial training opportunity for firefighters to enhance their skills and readiness in responding to ice-related emergencies, ensuring the safety of both rescuers and individuals in distress.
Random Humanizing Touch:
As a child, I remember eagerly waiting for winter to arrive so I could join my friends on the frozen pond for ice skating. The thrill of gliding on ice was incomparable, but my parents always emphasized the importance of ice safety and never venturing out alone. This personal experience resonates with Chief Bruce’s advice on being cautious and well-prepared when engaging in winter activities on ice. Let’s all take heed and prioritize safety above all else during this chilly season.
