Crime & Safety

Simsbury FD Freezes While Training To Save Lives

Volunteer firefighters were out in the icy, cold February waters Sunday to practice cold-weather water rescues.

SIMSBURY, CT — This time of year, the Simsbury Volunteer Fire Department must always be ready to do something it hopes it doesn't have to do — pull someone from the icy water.

Over the weekend, the department was seen at an undisclosed location in town preparing for just that.

While just a drill, the exercise prepared both SVFD volunteers and auxiliary member for the type of water rescue that will save a life.

Find out what's happening in Simsburyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Sunday morning, they were out on a frozen lake.

"Firefighters donned cold water rescue suits and practiced removing victims in multiple scenarios," wrote the SVFD.

Find out what's happening in Simsburyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"The varying thickness of the ice proved to be challenging but more than likely what we would encounter."

Posted photos to social media even showcased exactly what volunteers are up against, namely teeth-chattering cold.

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