| With the winter season and temperatures now in full effect across our region, ice forms among many of the ponds, pools, lakes, and even the reservoir in our district. With this hazard, our department trains to properly handle ice emergencies, rescuing people, animals, and sometimes property that have fallen through or become trapped on the ice.
Recently, the Bedford Fire Department suited up and headed out to Blue Heron Lake with our ice rescue gear to put our members to the test. After ensuring safety with proper harnesses and ice equipment as well as an EMS standby, evolutions were conducted to rescue a "trapped" person out on the ice.
Various techniques were used to reach and recover the person, utilizing our rescue sled, ice picks, float rings, and webbing harnesses. All members present rotated through tending, rescue, and victim positions to get a feel for each role.
Being out on the ice can be fun, but please remember to always check for sufficient ice depths and wait for adequate freezes before going out. Most importantly, never go on the ice alone. |
