The Pleasant Valley Fire District, which covers numerous lakes and ponds in the region, knows that winter brings a variety of recreational activities to these waterways, from ice skating and ice fishing to snowmobiling.

However, they also recognize the inherent dangers of thin ice. To prepare for the possibility of someone falling through the ice, the district maintains a dedicated ice rescue team.

Taking advantage of the recent prolonged cold weather, team members conducted a training exercise this weekend, practicing critical skills such as rescue techniques, using specialized ice rescue suits, deploying ropes and reaching tools. “Regular training is essential for our team to stay prepared for any ice-related emergencies,” said District Chief John Cronk. “We want to remind everyone to be aware of ice conditions before venturing out and to never go on the ice alone.”

The Pleasant Valley Fire District encourages residents to check local ice conditions before engaging in winter activities on the lakes and ponds."

Photos by : Lieutenant Eddie See