Cold water shock can occur within the first minutes of falling into icy water, while hyperthermia may set in within 10 minutes, leading to unconsciousness and a significant risk of drowning. As winter approaches, Verona’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) stands ready to handle any cold weather emergencies that may arise. Ice rescues are always a consideration given our close proximity to Verona Lake and Prisoners Pond, as well as being able to provide mutual aid support to nearby communities.

Each year, the Verona Fire Department, Verona Rescue Squad, and Verona Police Department conduct joint ice rescue training, currently with 25 certified members across the three agencies.

After 20 years of wear and tear, OEM has acquired two new ice rescue suits in preparation for the 2025 Winter Season. These suits enable rescue personnel to operate in icy water for extended periods of time, which is essential for maintaining both mental and physical capabilities. Crafted from highly visible nylon, the suits feature an inner buoyancy liner along with various other performance attributes that facilitate swift rescues. In contrast to older models, these new suits are 45% lighter, making them easier to get on and provide enhanced agility and maneuverability during rescues. The new ice suits also come in a universal size, accommodating a broader range of personnel.

Connor McCann, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator, remarks, "The purchase of these two new ice rescue suits by the Office of Emergency Management reinforces the Township's commitment to public safety. The suits will be deployed by the Verona Fire Department to ensure a prompt response to this low-frequency yet high-risk situation."

Pictured with the new suits are: (left to right)

• Assistant Fire Chief, Matthew Gifford
• Detective, Robert Maguire
• Emergency Management Coordinator, Joel Martin
• Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator, Connor McCann

The Office of Emergency Management is a component of municipal government that is responsible for emergency preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery efforts throughout the township. Members of the OEM staff operate under the direction of the municipal Emergency Management Coordinator. Members of the OEM staff prepare operations plans for events in the township, prepare for natural disasters and other major incidents, provide training for the township's first responders to better enhance their service, and respond to incidents that require their expertise.