Safety suits, ice picks and buckets of water

I got a chance to spend a good part of two days with the Toronto Police marine unit learning about ice safety and rescue scenarios.

There is too much information to cram into one post, so I will be adding some additional information and tips for the public on ice safety over the next couple weeks. The short version is, don't go out on the ice anywhere in and around Toronto and if your friends, loved ones, or pets go in wait for help.

On top of some classroom time, where I was taught how different types of ice form and the effects of cold water on the body (more on this in another post), I was dressed up in a waterproof suit and allowed to drop through some holes in the ice.

On Day One I got to use ice picks to pull myself out of the water/ do my best impression of an over-caffeinated walrus. By the end of the day my face ached from smiling. I also had a pretty decent oval-shaped sunburn on the small part of my face that was exposed to the elements.

On Day Two we did rescue scenarios. I was the victim. The first rescue was in a pond-like area of Humber Bay Park. I was tossed a rope that I wrapped around my arm so I could be dragged to safety.

Here is the story I wrote about the second rescue scenario.

That said, realizing few things make me happier than getting a workout in a safety suit. So open to suggestions.

P.S. Thanks to the Star's Robyn Doolittle for filming and the Toronto Police for the training, snapping the photos and not leaving me in the water!

Comments

[Kristine Arthur]

This is an incredibly clever blog, and you should be proud for keeping reality so uplifting! Your experiences are ones that many would love to have, and hopefully will inspire them to do so!