“The Fire Side” – Ice awareness

By Muir Furzer Strathmore Deputy Fire Chief

Hopefully the record setting deep freeze that we have experienced these past few months is fading away. Daylight is hanging around longer; warmer temperatures bring smiles to everyone. Even the youngsters are starting to play at our community playgrounds.
With the warming trend that we are experiencing, our town’s drainage system will be hard at work. You will witness water flowing down our streets on its journey to the Bow River. First, it must pass through our municipal storm ponds then into the local irrigation canals.
While many kids find it fun to play in and around the water, it is important that they are reminded of the potential dangers it presents.
With our record snowfalls and impending melt-off, Strathmore Fire Department would like everyone to be cautious around any moving or stationary water. Moving because it can sweep you away in a blink. Stationary because it is hard to tell how deep.
Over the next few weeks, Strathmore and Wheatland County firefighters will be out practicing their ice rescue drills. If you see them, drop by and visit. See their equipment and laugh as you hear members squeal when they hit the c-c-c-cold water.
A reminder to residents that warmer temperatures bring unsafe ice conditions. Do not attempt to rescue anyone, including animals, that have fallen through the ice or into fast flowing water without first contacting 911.
For more information, please visit (http://www.redcross.ca/training-and-certification/swimming-and-water-safety-tips-and-resources/swimming–boating-and-water-safety-tips/ice-safety).