Oneida, NY — February 20th — Deputy Chief Rob Cowles recently participated in an ice and water rescue lesson on Delta Lake, according to the Oneida City Fire Department, headquartered at 109 N Main St. Firefighters from many local departments participated in the training, which was organized by the Westernville Volunteer Fire Department.

The cold-water rescue methods used when victims fall through ice in lakes or ponds were examined by the participants. In order to safely reach and remove patients, crews practiced using ice suits, ropes, flotation devices, and coordinated team activities. Because of the numerous rivers in the area, Central New York departments frequently undertake winter rescue training. This kind of training keeps firemen ready for ice-related crises in the winter.