Ice rescue training; Instruction aims to save victims and rescuers

Posted 1/20/15

The training focused on the skills necessary to conduct open ice self-rescues effectively as well as the rescue of victims who have become trapped by falling through the ice.

Classroom training Saturday included sessions on rescue skills and …

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Ice rescue training; Instruction aims to save victims and rescuers

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CODY — The Park County Sheriff’s Office hosted a two-day ice rescue course for Search and Rescue personnel Saturday and Sunday.

The training focused on the skills necessary to conduct open ice self-rescues effectively as well as the rescue of victims who have become trapped by falling through the ice.

Classroom training Saturday included sessions on rescue skills and techniques such as preplanning, evaluation of the rescue environment, equipment, rope rescue, personal safety and self-rescue, as well as ice processes and properties. 

Day two took place at the Buffalo Bill Reservoir, where students watched and conducted open-ice rescues using techniques taught in the class. 

The course, “Ice Rescue Technician,” was conducted by representatives of Rescue 3 International of Wilton, Calif., and was attended by Search and Rescue personnel from Park, Washakie and Fremont counties.

Instructors were Dick Rice, owner of Alaska Rescues in Anchorage, Alaska, and K.C. Bess, who works and resides in Jackson. Both are certified contract instructors for Rescue 3

International. 

“Every agency that anticipates an ice rescue should prepare,” Sheriff Scott Steward said in a prepared statement.

Steward, who attended the classroom training, added, “It is often the quality of the training that determines the victim’s chances for survival, while at the same time ensuring the rescuers’ safety. This training is a good start, but one-time training isn’t enough. Ongoing practice is vital.

“These two elements, combined with actual calls, give our Search and Rescue personnel the ability to conduct a safe and effective rescue when the time comes.” 

The Park County Search and Rescue Unit is comprised of 25-30 local men and women volunteers from all walks of life who are ready at a moment’s notice to respond and provide state-of-the-art rescue techniques to those in need. To learn more about the unit, go to the Park County Sheriff’s webpage at www.parkcountysheriff.net/searchandrescue.html.

— Ilene Olson

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