From WDIO-TV - December 15, 2021

It's early in the ice season, and while broken up and thin ice is definitely not safe, it does offer the right conditions for the Duluth Fire Department to train.

Tuesday afternoon, a handful of firefighters got into water rescue suits and practiced for an emergency.

"We've already had a lot of people out on the ice, taking advantage of early ice fishing. A couple days ago, we had quite a few houses out on the bay," Rescue 1 Captain Ben Johnson said. "But it's still early. This is still dangerous ice."

He said there's a wide variation in ice thickness out there with some spots at 4-6 inches and others with open water.

"Just be very careful," he said. "Don't go out alone. Make sure you're testing the ice that you're going out on safe ice. And check as you go."

He also recommends having good gear. He said a flotation suit could save a life. 

To see the original report and read related stories, follow this link to the WDIO-TV website. https://www.wdio.com/news/duluth-fire-department-ice-rescue-practice/6332847/?cat=10335