The Ice Rescue Technician Course (IRT) is a fast-paced, educational program specifically designed for Public Safety and Rescue Professionals, including Law Enforcement, Fire, Rescue, and EMS Personnel. This course is designed as a foundational course for all public safety and rescue professionals. The focus of this one-day training program is on surface rescue for cold water and ice incidents with an emphasis on personal survival and safety of the rescuer. It is designed to provide the public safety and rescue professional with the knowledge and skills necessary for safe rescue and recovery operations in, on and around ice and cold water.
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The IRT Course consists of a 2-hour classroom session, followed by two 2.5 hour practical sessions on the ice and in cold water. A 1-hour course debriefing and written exam concludes the course. Subjects and/or practical evolutions include the following:
• The Rescue Process
• Ice Safety Principles
• Incident Command
• Cold Water Rescue and Survival
• Ice Rescue and Survival
• Recognition and Management of Hypothermia
• Use of Specialized Safety and Rescue Equipment
The two intensive 2.5 hour practical sessions require each participant to wear either a Cold Water/Ice Rescue Suit or a Dry Suit with a PFD. During the 15 practical evolutions, each participant rotates through various positions at each station including Primary Rescuer, Secondary Rescuer, and Victim. Participants are continually active during the 15 practical evolutions and are responsible for manning tether lines when not serving in the above capacities. After completing the rotation within each practical evolution, the team of students then immediately rotates to another practical evolution.
The IRT Candidate must be in good physical condition and must be comfortable in deep water while wearing a Cold Water/Ice Rescue Suit or Dry Suit with a PFD.
Individuals who participate in the Ice Rescue Technician Course and who successfully complete the classroom session and the final written examination, but who cannot participate or successfully complete the practical sessions, will be awarded an Ice Rescue Awareness certificate.
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Course Instructor
The curriculum has been developed by and is presented by Gerald Dworkin, a professional Aquatics Safety and Water Rescue Consultant for Lifesaving Resources. Dworkin has authored numerous articles which have appeared in such publications as Advanced Rescue Technology; Journal of Emergency Medical Services (JEMS); Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Magazine; Parks and Recreation Magazine; and Aquatics International. Besides the Water Rescue Course Guidebook, Dworkin has also published the Ice Rescue Course Guidebook, The Lifeguard Competition Guidebook, and CPR for Infants and Children (published by the Child Welfare League of America).
Dworkin has an extensive background in Aquatics, Water Rescue, EMS, and Firefighting, and regularly consults as an Expert in drowning and aquatic injury litigation. Dworkin is considered an expert and qualified educator in the field of Aquatics Safety, Water Rescue, and Ice Rescue throughout the country.
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Course Schedule
The one-day IRT course is scheduled from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Sign-in begins at 7:30 AM. Lunch is provided; several breaks are provided throughout the course. Certificates and insignia are awarded to those who successfully meet all educational course objectives including: (A) participation in classroom session; (B) completion of all practical evaluations; and (C) pass the written final examination.
Course Fees
The fee for the 1-day training program includes the comprehensive Ice Rescue Technician Course Guidebook, snack and lunch,handouts, and upon successful completion of the course a Course Completion Certificate and Insignia.
Course Registration
Participants may register OnLine, by mail, or by fax for Lifesaving Resources' sponsored courses. Early registration is recommended and should be received at least 10 days prior to the Course date in order to insure availability. Courses may also be sponsored by independent organizations at which time registration must be processed directly through those organizations.
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