KAMSACK — In their continued efforts to stay up to date on training at all levels, members of the Kamsack Fire Department joined members from Invermay, Wadena and Foam Lake during the second half of winter 2024. The Kamsack team did a refresher course at Madge Lake — in the same area where the course was held in 2024.
Ice water rescue training is crucial for a number of reasons, including the dangers of cold-water shock and the potential for hypothermia, which can lead to drowning, according to .
Trainers assist fire department members in ensuring they learn the necessary skills to survive in these dangerous situations.
Fire department members look at the importance of understanding the physiology of cold-water shock and how to manage it effectively.
Cold water exposure can cause hypothermia, which impairs judgement and co-ordination, making it difficult to escape the water. Firefighters were trained in how to prevent hypothermia and how to safely assist individuals who may be experiencing hypothermia in the emergency situation presented.
“Looks can be deceiving, and we have to be cautious. Participating in training exercises helps us prepare for all kinds of emergencies,” Kamsack Fire Chief Ken Thompson told the Kamsack Times in an earlier interview.
