Annually, members from Union Bridge refresh their skills in rescue operations for Cold Water and Ice Rescue situations. This year, personnel from Union Bridge and New Windsor, trained together at one of Lehigh Cement Plants storm water management ponds. The training was held later than usual because the ice conditions were not favorable earlier in the season.
Now, as temperatures begin to warm up, ice begins to thin. This increases the possibility of people or animals, falling through the ice on streams and ponds. Crews took turns putting on Cold Water/Ice Rescue suits and operating as Line Tender personnel. Each of the personnel tried various methods of rescuing people who had fallen through the ice. Time is critical when rescuing someone who has fallen through the ice since severe hypothermia can quickly overcome the victim.
