PARK TWP., MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Feb. 4, 2026) – In the wake of a person falling through the ice shelf on Lake Michigan near South Haven last weekend comes training for first responders in such emergencies.
On Tuesday evening, members of the Park Township Fire Department teamed up with US Coast Guard officers from the Grand Haven station for ice rescue training exercises on Lake Macatawa. They responded to a scenario in which a dog had fallen through the ice, and the canine’s owner also went through in an effort to rescue the pet.
Officials of both departments wanted to see how their staffers handled the realistic and progressively complex events, which were designed to challenge decision-making and prioritization under stress. This drill had been scheduled prior to the South Haven area incident.
While such exercises are meant to enhance readiness and improve the ability of agencies to save lives while protecting first responders, citizens are urged to stay off of ice shelves and pier hands during these icy conditions.
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