BINGHAMTON, NY — February 17th —Members of the Binghamton Fire Department conducted ice rescue training over several days to prepare for cold water and frozen waterway emergencies.

The hands-on training allowed firefighters to practice rescue techniques, equipment deployment, and coordinated operations on frozen surfaces. Officials said ice rescue training typically occurs each year, but it depends on weather conditions and safe ice formation.

This winter’s extended cold temperatures created thicker ice than usual, providing favorable conditions for crews to train in realistic scenarios. Firefighters practiced reaching and removing victims from the water while maintaining rescuer safety.