KAWARTHA LAKES, Ont. – Kawartha Lakes Fire & Rescue Service has changed its policy regarding rescue of animals that fall through ice into the water in early spring and late fall. In mid-February, firefighters were informed that they were no longer permitted to rescue deer that have fallen through broken ice, nor would they break through ice to rescue trapped animals. Fire Chief Mark Pankhurst told local media on Feb. 23 that the practice was too dangerous for the rescuers; for example, a firefighter in Hanover had recently been swept under ice and killed during an ice-water-rescue training session. Kawartha Lakes firefighters may still attempt rescues of deer that slip on unbroken ice and have difficulty getting up – but only if the ice can support the weight of all the responders.