Lund & Pepin Fire Departments Team Up for a Valentine’s Day on the Ice
On February 14th, while most people were celebrating with chocolates and flowers, the Lund Fire Department and our sister department, Pepin Fire, spent the day doing what we do best — training hard to keep our communities safe.
Our joint Ice Rescue Training brought both departments together for hands‑on practice in cold‑water rescue techniques, victim location, equipment deployment, and coordinated response. Working side‑by‑side strengthens our teamwork, sharpens our skills, and ensures that when the call comes in, we’re ready to respond as one unified team.
This training included:
- Spotting and marking victim locations
- Establishing cold, warm, and hot zones
- Safe approaches to unstable ice
- Rescue vs. recovery decision‑making
- Hands‑on practice with dry suits, rescue sleds, and rope systems
- Self‑rescue techniques for firefighters who break through the ice
We’re incredibly proud of the dedication shown by both departments. Days like this highlight the commitment, grit, and collaboration that keep Pepin and Pierce Counties protected year‑round.
PSA: Warming Weather Means Unpredictable Ice
As temperatures rise, ice conditions can change fast — even from one hour to the next. What looks solid may be thin, slushy, or unstable underneath.
A few reminders to keep you and your family safe:
- No ice is ever guaranteed safe
- Avoid areas with moving water
- Keep pets leashed near frozen lakes or rivers
- Never attempt to rescue someone by going onto the ice yourself — call 911
- If you fall through, stay calm, control your breathing, and use the “kick and pull” method to get back onto the ice
Our volunteers train for these emergencies, but prevention is always the best rescue.
Stronger Together
A huge thank‑you to Pepin Fire Department for joining us in this essential training. Collaboration like this makes both departments stronger and better prepared for whatever comes our way.
Stay safe, stay aware, and enjoy the rest of winter responsibly.
Special thanks to Carrie Arens, Don Norman, Paul Solyntjes for providing pictures
About the Lund Fire District: The Lund Fire Department is a volunteer fire department dedicated to protecting the residents of Pepin Township, Maiden Rock Township, Stockholm Township and the Village of Stockholm. With a team of highly trained professionals, the department offers fire protection, rescue services, and emergency medical response support. The department is committed to community outreach and education, ensuring that everyone has the knowledge and resources to stay safe.
About the Lund Fire Fund: The Lund Fire Fund was established to address the growing needs of the all-volunteer Lund Fire District. Our mission is to assist local fire fighters and emergency response teams in the Lund Fire District by providing essential equipment, advanced training, and other critical resources that they require to respond to emergencies swiftly and efficiently.
You can donate to our cause by using our donation page or contacting us directly.
Lund Fire District 