Grand Isle Fire Hosts Vermont’s Longest-Running Ice Rescue Certification Course
Photo by Grand Isle Volunteer Fire DepartmentIce rescue teams conduct hands-on training, coordinating rope systems and rescuer movements on frozen water during a previous Grand Isle certification course.
Photo by Grand Isle Volunteer Fire DepartmentRescuers practice coordinated shore-based pulls as part of technician-level ice rescue evolutions near the Route 2 drawbridge.
Photo by Grand Isle Volunteer Fire DepartmentCourse instructors demonstrate safe victim contact and extraction techniques during live ice rescue scenarios.
Photo by Grand Isle Volunteer Fire DepartmentTraining materials outline course dates, certification levels, equipment requirements, and safety expectations for participants.
Photo by Grand Isle Volunteer Fire DepartmentA promotional flyer highlights the 22nd year of Vermont’s longest-running ice rescue certification program hosted by Grand Isle Fire.
January 8, 2026 — The Grand Isle Volunteer Fire Department announced it will once again host Vermont’s longest-running Ice Rescue certification course, marking its 22nd year in partnership with Lifesaving Resources LLC. The two-day program will take place at the Grand Isle Fire Station on Friday, February 20, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Saturday, February 21, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The course offers Awareness, Operations, and Technician-level certifications, with Awareness consisting of a Friday evening classroom session and Operations and Technician levels requiring both classroom and on-ice training. Certifications are valid for five years and are designed for fire, rescue, and emergency response personnel to build and maintain critical cold-water and ice rescue skills. Department officials encourage agencies across the region to spread the word and participate in the nationally recognized program. Those seeking additional information or registration details are encouraged to contact instructor Bill Baron at wab448@gmail.com.
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