Though several coast guard members have undergone ice rescuer training in the lower forty-eight, this was the first time any of them had experienced ice training in the Arctic. The air temperature hovered around freezing and the water temperature was 29 degrees Fahrenheit.  Rescue techniques vary depending on how long the victim has been in the water and whether they are conscious or unconscious. Forms of rescue equipment used include slings, harnesses, sleds, and shepherd’s crooks.

4 Responses

1. 

   Erin Curtis June 14, 2014

   Wow that looks cold, but yet thrilling all at the same time..I wonder if my man was part of that..Thank you for posting it was neat to see the pics of the them doing there rescue drills.

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2. 

   Susan White June 16, 2014

   Great shots, Amanda, from interesting angles. Just wondering how you got some of them!

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     amanda@amandakowalskiphoto.com June 25, 2014

     Hi Aunt Suze, For some of the more unique angles I was actually using a camera in waterproof housing mounted to a pole. Don’t worry, I didn’t go swimming!

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3. 

   amanda@amandakowalskiphoto.com June 25, 2014

   Hi Erin,

   Thanks for your comment. That training was amazing; I was very impressed by the union of fun and strategy. The crew is incredibly talented.

   Reply