In Case of Emergency, Every Second Counts - Firefighters Practice Ice Rescue - German firefighters brave freezing waters in life-saving ice rescue drills
Every winter, firefighters from across Germany gather in Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein, for vital ice rescue training. The local fire department leads these drills, usually held on frozen lakes like Heidsee. With temperatures dropping, the exercises prepare crews for emergencies on unstable ice.
Firefighters train annually in icy conditions, diving into lakes whenever the surface freezes. Recently, Maximilian Schade from Kassel took part in a drill at Lake Buga, where the water sat at a chilling 4°C. Special suits shield rescuers from the cold for up to 30 minutes, allowing them to work safely in freezing water.
During emergencies, divers secure themselves with safety lines before searching underwater. Once a victim is found, they are pulled to shore and wrapped in warm blankets. Rescuers then gradually warm them with tea—never alcohol—since the body loses heat and mobility rapidly in icy water.
Authorities warn against walking on frozen lakes due to unpredictable ice thickness. If someone falls through, they should first try to self-rescue while calling 112. Bystanders can assist by using tools like ropes or ladders, but only after securing their own safety.
The training ensures firefighters are ready to respond when ice-related accidents occur. With proper equipment and techniques, they can locate and rescue victims before hypothermia sets in. The drills also remind the public to avoid frozen waters and follow emergency procedures if needed.
