As winter conditions continue, the Fire Department has been conducting Surface Ice Water Rescue drills to ensure crews are prepared for emergencies involving frozen bodies of water. This specialized training allows firefighters to practice critical skills in realistic conditions and ensure a coordinated, effective response if an ice rescue situation occurs in the community.
The training began with a group brief, followed by firefighters suiting up in dry suits and helmets designed to protect them from frigid water. Crews practiced properly tying and securing rescue ropes to a person in the water and reviewed techniques for safely inflating and deploying a rescue raft. Firefighters then used the raft to simulate rescues.
Additional components of the drill included cutting through ice using a chainsaw and learning how to properly anchor rescue equipment to the ice to prevent shifting during a rescue operation. Firefighters also practiced “throw rescues”, which involve using ropes or flotation devices to assist a victim from a safe distance, along with self-rescue techniques that teach responders to kick and pull themselves out of the water if they fall through ice.
Ice rescues are among the most dangerous emergency situations firefighters may encounter, requiring specialized equipment, training, and strong teamwork. Regular hands-on training ensures firefighters remain prepared to act quickly and safely when conditions are at their most challenging.
As firefighters continue to train for winter emergencies, residents are reminded that no ice is ever completely safe. Ice conditions can change rapidly due to temperature fluctuations, moving water, and snow cover that can conceal weak or unstable areas.
Residents are encouraged to follow these ice safety tips:
- Stay off frozen ponds, lakes, and retention areas.
- Never assume ice is safe based on appearance or recent cold weather.
- Keep children and pets away from frozen water.
- If someone falls through the ice, call 911 immediately and do not attempt a rescue yourself.
- Only skate at designated, maintained ice rinks when conditions are deemed safe. Current rink status and updates are available on the Northbrook Park District website at nbparks.org/status.
The safest way to prevent an ice rescue emergency is to avoid going onto the ice altogether.
The Village thanks the Fire Department for its continued commitment to training, preparedness, and protecting the community during the winter season.