Bayport Fire Department Hosts Ice Rescue Training Ahead of Super Bowl Weekend

Responders from across the tri-state area gather in Bayport for advanced ice rescue drills as 'no ice is safe ice'

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The Bayport Fire Department hosted its annual ice rescue training exercises over Super Bowl weekend, with first responders from across the region coming to practice their skills in the frigid waters around Long Island. The training, led by the nationally recognized Team Lifeguard Systems, focused on advanced techniques for rescuing multiple victims who have fallen through ice, emphasizing the importance of preparedness as public safety agencies respond to these emergencies each winter.

Why it matters

Ice rescue training is critical for first responders in coastal communities like Bayport, where the risk of people falling through ice on waterways is a constant threat, especially during the winter months. By hosting these drills, the Bayport Fire Department is helping to ensure that emergency personnel are equipped with the knowledge and skills to safely and effectively respond to ice-related incidents and save lives.

The details

The Bayport Fire Department has hosted Team Lifeguard Systems' annual ice rescue training for over 20 years, taking advantage of the community's proximity to various freshwater lakes and saltwater waterways. This year's advanced Ice Rescue Level 2 course built on previous training, with participants practicing techniques like strapping on flotation slings, rescue sleds, poles, and throw bags while wearing protective suits and responding to simulated scenarios involving multiple victims.

  • The ice rescue training took place over Super Bowl weekend.
  • The Bayport Fire Department has hosted the annual training for over 20 years.

The players

Bayport Fire Department

The local fire department that hosts the annual ice rescue training exercises in Bayport, New York.

Team Lifeguard Systems

A nationally recognized organization that provides the ice rescue training curriculum and instruction for the Bayport Fire Department's annual drills.

Walt 'Butch' Hendricks

The president and lead instructor of Team Lifeguard Systems, who emphasizes the mantra of 'no ice is safe ice' during the training.

Kelly Becker

An Ocean Beach Fire Department firefighter who attended the advanced ice rescue training in Bayport.

Steve Jaffe

An Ocean Bay Park firefighter who attended the advanced ice rescue training in Bayport.

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What they’re saying

“No Ice is safe Ice.”

— Walt 'Butch' Hendricks, President and Lead Instructor, Team Lifeguard Systems

“The cold was tough, but we're glad to train in case these skills are ever needed.”

— Kelly Becker, Steve Jaffe, Lucas Becher, Firefighters (Fire Island News & Great South Bay News)

What’s next

The Bayport Fire Department will continue to host the annual ice rescue training exercises, ensuring that first responders in the region are prepared to safely and effectively respond to emergencies involving people who have fallen through ice.

The takeaway

The Bayport Fire Department's commitment to hosting comprehensive ice rescue training underscores the critical importance of preparedness for first responders in coastal communities, where the risk of ice-related incidents is a constant threat during the winter months. By investing in this training, the department is helping to save lives and protect the public.