Resources
Moving Water and Ice - A Deadly Combination
By Slim Ray, CFS Press
Rescuers must be protected from the cold, both on shore and in the water. Obviously, a shore-based rescue that keeps rescuers out of the water is preferable if at all possible. If an in-water rescue is decided upon, rescuers must be given anti-exposure protection. However, many of the “Gumby” anti-exposure suits, meant for offshore use, are simply too bulky for swiftwater use. While newer, more flexible suits like the Mustang “Ice Commander” show promise, rescuers may end up using conventional swiftwater dry suits with insulating clothing underneath, which will limit their time in the water.
Floating ice chunks add to the hazards the rescue, and make normal rescue methods like “live bait” swimming rescue or boat-based rescues extremely difficult. It is imperative to have spotters stationed upstream to warn rescuers in the water if they are in danger of being hit. Floating ice may also foul any lines placed to stabilize the car or evacuate the victims. In addition, rescuers should be alert to keep rescuers clear of solid ice shelves downstream under which they might be swept.
On-shore warm-up facilities for both victim and rescuers are essential. While casualties will be transported immediately to medical support, an on-site tent for rescuers will make life easier for everyone and reduce the chance of hypothermia. Casualties who appear lifeless may still be revived—the rule is that no one is considered dead until they are warm and dead.
Slim Ray is an internationally-recognized authority on flood, swiftwater and whitewater safety and rescue, including course development and instruction with Rescue 3 International, Canyonlands Field Institute, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center. For more articles and books written by Slim Ray, see CFS Press. This article originally appeared in Fire & Rescue Magazine (UK).
