Registration's open now for the class, set for Feb. 13.
HOLLAND TWP. -- The Garden State Underwater Recovery Unit is planning its annual Basic Ice Rescue Techniques for Rescue Professionals course for Saturday, Feb. 13.
The class is open to all members of law enforcement and public safety, and follows guidelines taken from various ice rescue programs. It meets or exceeds NFPA 1670 - Ice Rescue Technician level.
The program will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Merrill Creek reservoir in Harmony Township. It's free for all Hunterdon County and Warren County public safety agency members. People from other public safety agencies are charged $10 a person. People who complete the program receive a certificate of attendance.
Registration is open now, and people are asked to call as soon as possible so plans for enough instructors can be arranged. Register by calling 908-995-2022.
Merrill Creek Reservoir is off Montana Road coming from Route 57, and off Fox Farm Road coming from Route 519. The general information number for the reservoir is 908-454-1213.
Participants can bring whatever equipment their departments have, or use, for ice rescue purposes.
Suggested gear includes: Dry/Ice rescue suits, personal flotation devices, crampons, ice picks, inflatable fire hose, specialized ice rescue devices, throw-ropes, ring buoys and the like. People can call the registration phone number with questions.
Students should plan on ringing their own lunch and beverage. High-calorie foods and hot drinks are strongly suggested. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted.
Sallie Graziano may be reached at sgraziano@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SallieGraziano. Find The Hunterdon County Democrat on Facebook.