A number of local fire departments have been practicing their ice rescue skills over the past few weeks.  New Fairfield Volunteer Firefighters warned people last night not to be alarmed if they saw a number of people out on Candlewood Lake. 

The ice rescue training used spotlights and several emergency vehicles had their lights flashing near the lake. 

Sandy Hook volunteer firefighters spent nearly four hours on the ice of Lake Lillinonah Sunday morning for ice water training.  Four members of Newtown Underwater Search And Rescue also met at the town’s boat launch for the exercise.  With below freezing temperatures and  four inches of clean ice, officials say it was an ideal training setting.  Participants paired off, donned ice rescue suits and learned the limitations of movement.  They then got into teams of three and headed for the ice.  Firefighters also incorporated the use of a sled for rescue operations. 

10 firefighters received certification for Ice Water Rescue.