Lakes Region Sea Scouts train with Gilford Fire & Rescue team

GILFORD — Sea Scouts Lakes Region Scouts recently trained with Gilford Fire & Rescue at the Glendale town docks, learning how to protect themselves when venturing on the ice as well as how to safely attempt shore-based rope and reach rescues.

“Sea Scouts have water adventures year round, and we hope to train our youth to stay out of danger in the first place by taking the proper precautions, get themselves out of trouble if they fall through, and safely assist others without being put themselves in jeopardy,” said Tom Ceniglio, skipper of the new Sea Scout Ship 72.

Among the preventative skills taught by firefighters Lachlan Plache and Tyler Emond were checking ice thickness, use of personal flotation devices in uncertain conditions, the importance of whistles, and not going out alone. Should an emergency occur, Scouts learned the use of emergency ice picks to claw onto the ice and to roll away from bad ice. When assisting others, Scouts were reminded to call 911 first, then assist with reach poles, ropes or other means of pulling out a victim, then taking steps to treat hypothermia until help arrives.

Sea Scouts Lakes Region had 13 youth and participating adults for the training Sunday, and hope to present those skills at the Alton Winter Carnival on Sunday, Feb. 16, in Alton Bay.

Brian Beihl, organizer and now committee member of the new group, said the generosity of local organizations like Gilford Fire & Rescue helps not only the Scouts, but the community, too.

“A significant percentage of first responders nationally were Scouts as youth, as well as becoming leaders in their communities. That’s a great return on investment, and we’re grateful for the help of the Gilford Fire & Rescue team,” he said.

For more information, visit SeaScoutsLakesRegion.org.