Winfield Fire/EMS Conducts Ice Rescue Training at Island Park

WINFIELD — The Winfield Fire/EMS Department conducted ice rescue training at Island Park, preparing crews for winter emergencies despite cold conditions.

"Cold weather doesn't stop emergencies," the department said in a social media post.

C Shift personnel practiced hands-on scenarios and safe rescue techniques in winter conditions, wearing specialized cold-water rescue suits as they trained on ice rescue procedures.

The department emphasized that the training exercise was planned and that no emergency response was taking place.

"If you see Winfield Fire/EMS apparatus and personnel at Island Park today, there is no cause for concern," the department said. "Our crews are conducting ice rescue training to stay prepared for winter emergencies. This is a planned training exercise, and no emergency response is taking place."

Photographs shared by the department showed firefighters in bright yellow cold-water rescue suits practicing rescue techniques on ice, including entering frigid water through broken ice and using specialized rescue equipment.

"Being prepared makes all the difference," the department said.

Ice rescue training is a critical component of winter emergency preparedness for fire and EMS departments, particularly in areas with frozen ponds, lakes and waterways where individuals may fall through thin ice.