Colorado Springs firefighters train for ice rescues by jumping into freezing water

It’s that time of year when ponds and lakes are frozen over and firefighters see an increase in people venturing onto the ice, eventually needing rescue.

That’s why the Colorado Springs Fire Department took to Prospect Lake at Memorial Park Tuesday to get some training done.

During the w inter months of 2018 and so far in 2019, CSFD has had 25 calls for surface ice rescues. To prepare, they begin the training by cutting a hole into the water about 100 feet offshore.

Firefighters will take turns with the rescues, using a rope to pull people out of the water and to safety.

Almost all Colorado Springs fire trucks and engines are equipped with insulated dry suits, which also keep anyone afloat. We also got a better look at what goes into the rescues firsthand.

“It could be as quick as a minute before you lose your cognitive abilities to think of how to swim or follow commands, it could be five,” said Capt. Brian Vaughn with CSFD.

Because of the dangers that go along with falling into frigid ice water, firefighters say it’s best to avoid walking onto frozen ponds or lakes altogether. But they say accidents happen and if you do fall through thin ice, it’s best to stay calm and keep your arms on the ice around you to help you float.

Vaughn says within seconds, firefighters can get into their suits and go out into the water to rescue you.

He says more than 100 firefighters in the city are trained for ice rescues.