OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – If you’re out on the Lake Winnebago ice near Oshkosh, you may have seen the rescue boat buzzing by.
The Oshkosh Fire Department is conducting training sessions this week, and firefighters say those sessions may compliment a busy month of fishing events scheduled on the ice.
John Ziemer, Oshkosh Fire Department Battalion Chief, spoke to WLUK.
“Every year, we try and get out on the ice and do some different water rescue training. Today, we’re focusing a lot on boat operations, and operating the boat”
Ziemer say the Husky ice rescue boat can cruise in the water, on the ice or just about anywhere in between.
“As far as ease of use, and response time to ge out onto the lake, to get to a location on the lake, it is probably one of the most valuable tools we have”
During one training scenario, firefighters placed wooden sticks on the ice. Crews had to find the location, using GPS. Another drill involved driving this small rescue vehicle fitted with chains on the tires.
“Not everything that we respond to on the lake is water rescue. We also do have medical emergencies that happen out on the ice. So we also have our mule out here, which is like a four-wheeler,” said Ziemer.
John Holland, Oshkosh Fire Department Public Information Officer, says firefighters say that training could be put to the test.
In the coming weeks, tens of thousands of people are expected to be on a frozen Lake Winnebago for events like the Otter Street Fishing Club Fisheree, sturgeon spear fishing, and Battle on Bago.
“With all that ahead of us, we want to make sure that we are ready to go, and it obviously is something that is on our radar, and makes us a little more prepared”
Holland says Lake Winnebago is a great resource…but must be treated with respect.
“The lake is great for recreation. We’re lucky to have all this around us, but it is a very dangerous location as well. So many things can go wrong when you’re out here”
Firefighters and other authorities remind people that no ice is ever considered 100 percent safe. Checking conditions with local fishing guides and bait shops is a good idea.
