Franklin, NY — February 23rd — Members of Franklin Fire & Rescue participated in an ice water rescue training practice alongside firemen from Treadwell and Meridale Fire Departments.

During the exercise, firemen wore cold-water rescue suits and rehearsed the basic rescue techniques known as Preach, Reach, Throw, Row, and Go. Crews are trained to communicate with victims, use ropes and ladders for reach-and-throw rescues, operate inflatable rescue boats, and perform in-water rescues if needed.

Support members helped manage safety lines, set up lighting, prepare warming stations, and help firefighters get ready. Officials also warned locals that ice conditions might change fast and to use caution when traveling on frozen water.