First responders come to Maine for intensive ice rescue training [Video]

THIS MORNING TO SEE WHAT THIS VIGOROUS EXPERIENCE IS REALLY LIKE. AFTER A FEW LESSONS IN THE CLASSROOM, IT WAS TIME TO BRING THEIR TRAINING OUTDOORS… AND RIGHT INTO THE WATER. THE PUBLIC HAS AN EXPECTATION THAT WHEN THEY CALL 911 THE PROFESSIONALS ARE SHOWING UP AND THEY’RE TRAINED AND EQUIPPED AND READY TO RESCUE. THAT’S NOT ALWAYS THE CASE.” FIRST RESPONDERS FROM CANADA AND 10 U-S STATES ARE HERE IN MAINE FOR 4-DAYS OF INTENSIVE TRAINING… “THEY ARE CONSTANTLY INVOLVED. NO ONE IS EVER STANDING AROUND WITH THEIR HANDS IN THEIR POCKETS.” “I JUST DID AN EVOLUTION IN THE WATER. IT’S PRETTY DIFFICULT. I’M STILL OUT OF BREATH.” … PRACTICING ICE RESCUE DRILLS AND LEARNING HOW TO BEST TEACH THIS LIFESAVING SKILL TO THEIR TEAMS BACK HOME. “WE HAVE TO HAVE THE HANDS ON EXPERIENCE TO SEE WHAT IT FEELS LIKE, TO BE ABLE TO ACTUALLY EFFECT A RESCUE, …