Proper firefighter training, equipment, technique and
awareness can reduce the dangers of ice rescues
In water rescue, there is a universally accepted rescue
sequence:
- Self
rescue
- Reach
- Throw
- Row
- Go
Rescuers should be qualified and trained to perform the task they are
preparing to undertake.
ANALYZE THE ICE RESCUE ENVIRONMENT
To avoid getting too in-depth about swift water environments, we'll focus on ice rescue on
static or slow-moving current. I am a strong proponent of stating that a
"go" rescue should never be performed on ice in which the water
current is flowing greater than 1 knot without having some extraordinary
conditions and precautions in place.
This would include some very experienced and certified
rescue swimmers, standby ice divers, water crafts, down-river rescuers, breach
points in the ice and a very savable victim.
When we analyze this scene, we are trying to identify the
victim, the victim's condition, any hazards present and the condition of the
ice. If we can't locate the victim, we are looking for the hole in the ice, any
tracks on the ice surface and any competent witness.
When assessing the ice, we are primarily evaluating the path
that the victim traveled before falling through. This is the most reliable path
to the victim because it has already been traveled and supported their weight.
All other surfaces are unknown until walked.
If the ice is unstable and has floating and slushy segments,
immediately call for an inflatable platform from which we can launch a rescue.
This can be as simple as a rescue sled or swim board or as elaborate as an
airboat or hovercraft.
Read More; Fire Rescue 1 by Dalan Zartman
