At 14:30 hours the Falmouth Volunteers decided to conduct the yearly ice rescue drill in England Run with the Engine, Rescue and Chief. Quint 12 and BC-1 also participated in the drill. Once at the drill site personnel first noticed the numerous footprints across the frozen pond which re-enforced the need for this type of training. Crews went over the type and use of the 6 ice rescue suits that are carried on MSU and Rescue 1. These specialized suits cost over $2500.00 and give the rescuer about 20 minutes of working time in the ice environment. Falmouth units are one of the few in Stafford County that carry these suits. The first drill conducted was utilizing a water rescue cinch collar to remove a victim that has fallen through a hole in the ice. The other drill was utilizing a Carleson board to remove a victim from the ice. Falmouth and career units conducted training for approximately 2 hours.
The Falmouth Volunteers would like to urge the citizens of Stafford County to understand that the natural ice in this area should NEVER be trusted to support the weight of any person so please STAY OFF THE ICE.
