Ice Rescue Awareness EMS Objectives 2026

EMS Specific Objectives:

Drowning: patient handling

1. Explain cold shock and cold stress in terms of patients and rescuers.
2. Explain the hypothermia curve and how we can use its information to prevent rescuer hypothermia and cold stress.
3. Describe the process and function of shivering and explain the problems of shivering in the water.
4. Explain the difference between heat loss in air and in water.
5. Explain the process of vasoconstriction due to cold, and describe the functions and problems caused by this vasoconstriction.
6. Explain how cold stress and hypothermia can result in hypovolemia.
7. Define cold and immersion diuresis.
8. Explain why rescuers working in the water or ice, should have their pulse and blood pressure checked before and after the rescue. What should be done with this information.
9. Explain why hypertension and asthma are contraindications for in water/ice rescue jobs.
10. Explain why rescuers should splash their face with water or "kiss the water Hello" before performing the rescue.
11. Describe at least three major causes of drowning in the U.S. for both adults and children.
12. Define near, long term and cold water drowning.
13. Describe traumatic, dry and wet drowning in terms of mechanism and physiological process.
14. Explain what happens to an accidental cold water immersion victim in terms of respiratory minute and blood pressure changes, end tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure, gasping and aspiration, cold induced diuresis, hypothermia, metabolism, the cardiovascular system, and drowning.
15. Define laryngospasm with its function as it relates to drowning and near drowning.
16. Explain the difference between dry and wet drowning.
17. Explain how foam is formed in a drowning victim airway, and why it sometimes is mixed with blood.
18. Describe the immersion hypothermia reflex.
19. Explain why patients must be handled exceedingly gently to prevent ventricular fibrillation.
20. List four problems with administering intravenous medications to a long term drowning victim.
21. Explain the pros and cons of administering ALS pre hospital care instead of BLS

LGS Surface Ice Rescue (EMS Specific Objectives, Tender & Rescuer awareness classroom only, no hands on) January 24, 2026, 0800 hrs to 1200 hrs. Course fee $50.00 per student *. Balance is due at the beginning of the class and is payable whether or not you attend or complete the class. The only exception to this may be made at the discretion of Bayport FD Engine Company 1 and may be made if we are able to replace you with another student prior to the class. Payment along with this reservation form by voucher, PO Order or check will guarantee your position in the class.