Barnstable Fire Department Completes Annual Ice Rescue Training
Photo by Barnstable Fire DepartmentFirefighters in cold-water rescue suits prepare equipment during annual ice rescue training.
Photo by Barnstable Fire DepartmentCrews establish safety lines and position a rescue sled at the edge of a frozen pond.
Photo by Barnstable Fire DepartmentA rescuer enters broken ice as team members maintain control lines during a simulated emergency.
Photo by Barnstable Fire DepartmentAn ice rescue sled is maneuvered across open water as part of a victim recovery scenario.
January 6, 2026 — Members of the Barnstable Fire Department’s Groups 2 and 3 completed their annual ice rescue training this week, reinforcing critical skills needed to safely operate in one of the most dangerous emergency environments firefighters may face.
Ice rescue training is conducted each year to refresh lifesaving techniques, strengthen teamwork, and ensure specialized rescue equipment is fully operational. The drills are designed to simulate high-risk, low-frequency incidents, allowing firefighters to practice coordinated responses under controlled conditions while preparing for real-world emergencies.
Department officials also reminded residents that there is no such thing as truly “safe” ice outdoors. Ice conditions can change rapidly due to weather, water currents, and unseen hazards. The only ice considered safe is found indoors at ice skating rinks.
The department praised Groups 2 and 3 for their dedication to maintaining readiness for all hazards, emphasizing that continued training ensures firefighters are prepared to respond safely and professionally should an ice rescue emergency occur.
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