A hole in the northern ice, turned into a classroom for 12 members of the Manitoba RCMP.

On March 5 and 6, the members dipped into the icy waters of Paint Lake to learn how to save others- and themselves- if ever needed.

Some of the officers were wearing "everyday clothing" and entered the water without a dry suit in order to gain the experience an understanding of what is required in order to protect those that they serve and themselves.

Each officer is now a certified Ice Rescue Technician (IRT). RCMP "D" Division now has approximately 35 IRTs in the province, with the majority posted in northern Manitoba.