Fire Department, Coast Guard, CRTC team up for ice exercises

ALPENA, Mich. — Those passing the Alpena harbor this morning may have noticed a number of emergency workers out on the ice.

The Alpena Fire Department, along with the Coast Guard and CRT, practiced their ice–rescue skills in a series of joint exercises. Simulations included fishermen who fell through the ice, pets in distress, and medical emergencies, among others.

Alpena Deputy Fire Chief Rob Edmonds said they employed a wide range of specialty equipment.

“They have what’s called a MARSARS board. It’s a specialty ice rescue tool. We also used an R.E.C, which we call a banana boat. It’s actually a device that can go across both ice and water.”

Edmonds added that this is actually the second day of their collaboration, with yesterday spent on presentations, lectures, and team-building