Sturbridge, MA — January 17th — On Saturday, the Brookfield Fire Department and members of Sturbridge Firefighters Local 170 participated in the annual ice rescue training at South Pond in Brookfield. The joint meeting was centered on training firemen to respond to ice-covered waterways around the area.

Crews used a Rescue Alive sled, rope systems, and cold-water rescue suits as they rotated through many rescue situations. Firefighters rehearsed controlled removals from dangerous ice conditions, coordinated rescuer operations, and safely approached casualties. For departments that safeguard local lakes and ponds, ice rescue training is still a crucial component of winter preparedness. Mutual-aid coordination is strengthened and uniform operational procedures are maintained through annual regional drills. The Brookfield Fire Department kindly contributed pictures from the training.