Ice Rescue Drill Prepares First Responders

With winter comes outdoor activities that revolve around colder temperatures, especially in northern New Jersey.

Dangers can lie around every corner, and first responders must always be prepared. With that in mind, the Allamuchy Township Volunteer Fire Department held an ice rescue drill on Allamuch Pond alongside the Green Township Fire Department and the Allamuchy-Green First Aid Squad.

Firefighters and rescue personnel met at the Allamuchy Firehouse for a briefing to discuss the equipment required for ice rescues and several new techniques for rescuing someone who may have fallen through the ice.

Rescue personnel made their way over to the pond to break through the ice and begin their training on a 16-degree day. Participating firefighters learned how to enter the icy water properly, how to self-extricate, techniques on rescuing victims who are conscious and unconscious, and how a rescue sled works.

Firefighters and rescue personnel who worked the safety lines from land learned what it takes to pull the ice rescuer and victim to safety, hand signals, and the importance of getting both the victim and rescuer to a warming shelter immediately.

The Allamuchy Ladies Auxilliary also assisted at the scene, providing a heated shelter along with food and drinks for the drill participants.

All information provided by James Bessemer.