The water on many New Jersey lakes froze quickly as temperatures dropped this week, providing the perfect opportunity for first responders to practice ice rescue.
In Cumberland County, volunteer firefighters from Upper Deerfield Township took to Silver Lake Thursday night in sub-zero temperatures to wade into the icy water.
Firefighters along with Upper Deerfield Fire Co. #3, Upper Deerfield Fire #1, Upper Deerfield EMS #34 and Downe Township Dive Team #39 took turns entering the water and pulling out.
Many volunteers had just finished work for the day when they went out after 5pm to Love Lane.
The National Weather Service in Mount Holly reported temperatures in the teens Thursday night.
Firefighters wore special First Watch Cold Water Rescue suits that insulated them from the cold and kept them afloat in the water.
“This time of year ice rescue has become common,” said Upper Deerfield Township Fire Chief John Schaffer.
The reason for ice training “is to be ready,” he said.
Some people go out on lakes or try to skate when the ice forms but sometimes they fall into the water when the ice breaks under them and they need to be rescued.
Ice Rescue trainingJohn Schaffer
“The issue we have is people walking on ice without knowing how thick the ice is. A warmer day (above freezing) can dramatically change the thickness of the ice,” Schaffer said.
Temperatures will remain below freezing for most of the week, making it the optimal time for ice rescue training, the chief said.
“We practice on ice to use our techniques and the cold weather and complications of being on ice cannot be replicated,” Schaffer said.
The training lasted more than an hour.
Ice Rescue Training on Silver Lake in Upper Deerfield Township.John Schaffer
Firefighters brought back ice rescue lessons they wouldn’t be able to learn any other time of year.
“We urge anyone walking on the ice to check it carefully. If it’s cracked as you walk, don’t continue on the ice,” Schaffer said.
He said it’s also important to let family or friends know if you’re going out on the ice and when you plan to return.
Firefighters are also prepared to rescue pets or animals stuck on the ice or falling into freezing water.
“We have the equipment and the training to be in these environments,” Schaffer said.
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Stephanie Loder can be reached at [email protected].
