Uploaded March 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
South Metro Fire Rescue's Dive Team conducted their annual ice rescue training, which includes practicing a lost diver rescue drill under the ice, in freezing water. This critical training ensures our team is prepared for any ice emergencies. While all SMFR suppression rigs are equipped for a surface ice rescue, the SMFR Dive Team, housed at Stations 19 and 31, are equipped and ready to respond to critical ice-related emergencies.
It's important to remember that no ice is safe ice! Colorado's unpredictable weather creates a freeze-thaw cycle that weakens ice, increasing the risk of cracks and fractures. Rapid temperature changes make the thickness of ice inconsistent and difficult to judge, further compromising safety. Here are some ice safety tips for this time of the year:
Pet Safety:
✔️ Keep pets on a leash near frozen water
✔️ Never let pets wander onto ice
✔️ If a pet falls in, call 911—don’t attempt a rescue yourself
If Someone Falls Through the Ice:
✔️ Try reaching from shore, throw a flotation device, then go for help
✔️ Call 911 immediately for professional rescue
If YOU Fall Through the Ice:
✔️ Stay calm and conserve energy
✔️ Get your arms on the ice, kick hard to lift yourself out, then roll to safety
✔️ Do not stand—exit the way you came
South Metro Fire Rescue's Dive Team conducted their annual ice rescue training, which includes practicing a lost diver rescue drill under the ice, in freezing water. This critical training ensures our team is prepared for any ice emergencies. While all SMFR suppression rigs are equipped for a surface ice rescue, the SMFR Dive Team, housed at Stations 19 and 31, are equipped and ready to respond to critical ice-related emergencies.
It's important to remember that no ice is safe ice! Colorado's unpredictable weather creates a freeze-thaw cycle that weakens ice, increasing the risk of cracks and fractures. Rapid temperature changes make the thickness of ice inconsistent and difficult to judge, further compromising safety. Here are some ice safety tips for this time of the year:
Pet Safety:
✔️ Keep pets on a leash near frozen water
✔️ Never let pets wander onto ice
✔️ If a pet falls in, call 911—don’t attempt a rescue yourself
If Someone Falls Through the Ice:
✔️ Try reaching from shore, throw a flotation device, then go for help
✔️ Call 911 immediately for professional rescue
If YOU Fall Through the Ice:
✔️ Stay calm and conserve energy
✔️ Get your arms on the ice, kick hard to lift yourself out, then roll to safety
✔️ Do not stand—exit the way you came
