RESCUE LINE CERTIFICATION:

With all of the members out of the water, Dan starts the next portion of the test. Dan Dalaet is shown kneeling down next to Specialist Ron Nelson as Ron makes his attempt to rescue one of the other members.

Members pull out the throw bags and special rescue lines with slings.

EMT Specialist Jen Nelson starts communication with the victim as she makes her way towards the water. She eases into the water along side the victim. The rope seen in the photo is attached to the front of her suit. Just forward of that, there is a sling (Red) that will be placed around the victim.

Jen carefully makes her way behind the victim and communicates her every move. "I am right behind you", "I am now putting my arms around you". She lets him know every move she makes and reassures him that he is now safe and will soon be out.

Dan watches every move and quickly corrects any mistakes or offers pointers on clipping the harness around the victim.

With the harness around the victim, Jen lifts her hand out of the water and taps the top of her head. This is the signal to pull the line.

First comes the victim with the rescuer right behind. Both are connected to the same rope but because the victim has a sling around his chest, when you pull the line it will not tighten causing injury.

As they are pulled across the ice the Specialist will take a position along the victim holding their legs together. This will help them slide easier. Great job! A perfect textbook rescue!

Dan demonstrates the technique of just lifting an uninjured victim out of the water.

Training for the day is over, now its time to just kick back and relax. In all, there are 18 certified Ice Rescue Specialists in the Town of La Pointe.