Michigan Firefighters Train Under Ice to Save Lives

When Heritage Lake freezes solid each winter, most people stay away from the dangerous ice. But for Shelby Township firefighters, it's the perfect classroom for learning how to save lives.

This week, the department's dive team trained five rescuers in the specialized skill of underwater ice rescue. The firefighters plunged into the frozen lake near the township hall, practicing the techniques they'll need if someone falls through the ice.

The training isn't easy. Divers can only stay underwater for 20 minutes before the freezing temperatures become dangerous, even with thick thermal layers and dry suits protecting them. Their fingers and toes start going numb long before that time limit hits.

"It's a little nerve-wracking under there, only have one way in and one way out," said Matthew McCann, a firefighter-paramedic who completed his first ice dive this week after six years with the department.

The team practices hunting for small carabiners under the ice. If they can find something that tiny in murky, freezing water, they can find a person who's fallen through.

Dive team leader Ethan Rutt explained the realistic scenarios they train for: a person or even a vehicle breaking through ice that looked solid. The divers drop into the water as far as they can safely go, then search methodically under the frozen surface.

Why This Inspires

In Macomb County, only two fire departments have invested in certified ice diving teams. These firefighters are volunteering to face one of the most challenging rescue scenarios imaginable, adding specialized skills to their already demanding jobs.

McCann saw the dive team as a chance to help more people in his community. "I like swimming, figured this was a good way to do that and work at the same time," he said with characteristic modesty.

The preparation matters. While Shelby Township hasn't needed any ice rescues or recoveries so far this winter, the team stands ready. When seconds count and someone's life hangs in the balance, these five certified divers will be equipped to respond.

Officials warn that no ice is ever completely safe. Cold water immersion quickly leads to loss of muscle control, hypothermia, and drowning. The department urges anyone who sees someone fall through ice to call 911 immediately rather than attempting a rescue themselves.

Despite the mental challenge of being trapped under solid ice with limited exit points, Rutt finds something beautiful in the work. "Once you get in there, absolutely beautiful, really cool environment to be upside down looking at the ice," he said.

This winter, if the worst happens, Shelby Township is ready with rescuers who've trained in the exact conditions they'll face.