POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — February 13th — As part of its winter training program, the Arlington Fire District, located at 11 Burnett Blvd., Poughkeepsie, NY, performed cold-water reaction drills and ice water rescue training. Firefighters rehearsed rope operations, victim access, and coordinated rescue techniques utilized in ice and cold-water incidents. When ice conditions on ponds, lakes, and rivers become unstable throughout the winter, cold-water events can happen.

To guarantee that crews can react safely and effectively, fire departments around New York State routinely train for these scenarios. According to officials, training in actual winter conditions helps firemen improve their collaboration and rescue skills. To stay prepared for water rescues and other emergency actions all year long, the Arlington Fire District maintains regular, daily training sessions.