Hardisty Fire Department runs Ice Rescue exercise on Family Day

Leslie Cholowsky – Editor

    Family Day ice fishing participants got to watch the Hardisty Fire Department train on Fish Lake Monday, as they performed simulated rescues in the open water area of the lake on Monday.

    Fire Chief Todd Baumgartner was on hand to direct the training session, which had firefighters suited up in special gear for the exercise.

    Two members were in the water, and another approached the open water using a special cold water rescue sled, and a paddle equipped with an ice pick, used to steer on areas of open water and ice equally well.

    Baumgartner said the suits are so well insulated that the firefighters wearing them only needed a sweatsuit underneath to stay warm.

For more see the Feb. 22/12 issue of The Community Press