THOMAS TOWNSHIP -- NBC25's Jessica Harthorn had to be rescued Saturday, after falling through ice into 40 degree water.
No, it wasn't an emergency, but part of a training exercise that's keeping rescue crews on their icy toes.
“Help! I just fell through the ice,” said NBC25 Reporter, Jessica Harthorn.
And yes! I did it on purpose.
Saturday I volunteered to be the victim for the Saginaw County Sheriff's Ice Rescue Class at Roethke Park.
More than 20 law enforcement officers and fire fighters learned the skills necessary to save someone holding on to dear life in 40 degree water.
Authorities say when you do fall into the water; you only have a matter of minutes until you start losing your dexterity, that's why it’s important to get out as soon as possible.
“The colder you get, you get confused, and you can't think, you can't function,” said David Sommers, an Instructor for the Saginaw County Sheriff’s Dive Team.
My rescuer cautiously crawled onto the ice.
“Are you my prince charming?" said Harthorn.
Entered the water and attached a harness around me.
In seconds I was safely pulled to shore.
I learned the effort takes a calm mind and a steady hand.
“It can be pretty stressful for an individual, you're looking at temperatures, the elements you are involved in, and also the water you have to go into,” said Corporal Manny Trevino, with the Saginaw County Sheriff’s Marine Division.
Authorities say in general, stay away from ice, but if you do venture out be prepared.
“If you do have a cell phone, keep it in the upper part of your coat,” said Trevino.
And bring some hand made spikes.
“Kids handle bar grips, if you put a nail at the end of them, and you attach a string to them, and have them around the neck,” said Trevino.
Why I might have taken the lesson lightly, these students understand the seriousness of the emergency they're training for.
“At the end of the day, we want to go home safely, and make sure the victim goes home safely,” said ice safety student, Mike Prenzler.
Something I was thankful to hear.
Next month, the Saginaw County Sheriff's Office will hold an underwater ice rescue class.
Jessica Harthorn will once again brave the cold and show you how it's done.
