Is it cold enough for you?
West Chester Fire Department is taking advantage of the below freezing, near zero temperatures for training purposes. In January, crews took to the ponds at Beckett Park near the Muhlhauser Barn and Fire Station 74 to practice ice rescue techniques. Ice rescues are unfortunately not an uncommon winter emergency.
Firefighters say stay off the ice and keep pets away, too. Be warned, it's never safe to venture out onto frozen ponds or lakes. The dangers associated with hypothermia and frostbite far outweigh the thrills of activities like figure skating and ice hockey.
If someone has fallen through the ice, dial 911 for help. Give dispatchers your exact location and be prepared to answer a few questions.
In West Chester Township, Ohio, the non-emergency line for the 911 Emergency Communications Center is 513-777-2231. Professional communications officers dispatch police, fire and emergency medical personnel.
Contact West Chester Fire Headquarters by calling 513-777-1133 or send a message online.
Connect with West Chester Fire & EMS at www.WestChesterOH.org/Fire.