Frozen ponds and bodies of water can be enticing for people who enjoy ice skating, hockey or ice fishing during the winter in what looks like a winter wonderland. 

But just because the water is frozen on the surface doesn't mean it's safe to walk or play. Every year, there is typically people who need to be rescued because they fall through the ice.

That's why the Western Reserve Joint Fire District and Poland Fire Department holds ice rescue training. 
 
"If we were to face this in real life, we need to know number one how to get the person out, and number two, how to keep us safe, so it's very important that we train in this scenario just to make sure  we are ready to go, if this scenario were to happen," said Lieutenant Dan Wright with the Western Reserve Joint Fire District, Poland F.D. 
 
Firefighters tell us if your pet falls through the water, they understand your pets are like family, but emphasize it's best not to attempt a rescue on your own but to call 911.
 
First Responders use insulated suits that help protect them. They also use the reach, throw, go method.
 
"We will try to reach an individual first from the shoreline. When that's not possible we will throw them a line to see if they can grab it and we can pull them out, and if all else fails we will go in with suits to try and get them out that way," said Tim Clivan Assistant Fire Chief of the Western Reserve Joint Fire District.
 
"They will probably become a victim themselves. I would suggest 911. We will respond in the case of an animal or person. we are much better trained. 
You know already it's unsafe because someone has already fallen through. There's a good chance 
you're going to fall through, and hypothermia in a cold water situation sets in quick. You lose dexterity, you lose the ability to control your muscles, and you end up becoming a victim yourself, added Assistant Fire Chief Clivan.
 
The First Responders who train to do rescues in the most dangerous situations say practice and team work will be analyzed to see what the firefighter/EMT's did right and what they can do better.