Fire crews train for frozen water rescues

The Cooper County Fire Protection District rehearsed frozen water rescues Sunday, less than a week after lakes frozen enough for activity.

On Jan. 2 Columbia Parks & Recreation announced Stephens Lake Park and Cosmo-Bethel Park were open for ice skating and fishing, respectively. The department said there was at least four inches of frozen water, which is the minimum for allowing people onto the ice.

Officials with the CCFPD say ice conditions can change daily, especially as the weather warms into the week.

If a person or animal falls through the ice or into the water, Captain Joey Simmons says it’s best to call 911 instead of taking matters into your own hands.

Parks & Rec updates their home page with announcements regarding the ice at each park, but they said no updates will be made over the weekend. Anyone going out on the ice should exercise caution.

For more tips from the department regarding safety on frozen water, click here.