The City of Montreal is surrounded by major waterways and also includes several inland bodies of water. Through its water and ice rescue specialty, the Montreal Fire Department (SIM) carries out emergency operations to assist any person in distress on the water or on ice.

The specialized teams have three types of boats at their disposal, including one designed specifically for winter operations. They are also equipped with protective clothing and specialized gear adapted for both water and ice rescue operations, ensuring personnel safety and operational effectiveness.

Water rescue services are provided from fire stations 14, 15, 35, 38, 55, 57, 64, and 66, while ice rescue services are managed by stations 15, 35, 38, 57, and 64. The complementary nature of these two specialties ensures operational coverage of waterways 365 days a year, depending on seasonal conditions.

Firefighters assigned to this specialty are equipped with waterproof suits and thermal protection, providing enhanced safety during prolonged exposure to cold and serving as optimal work gear for operations in aquatic or icy environments.

Initial training is delivered by SIM instructors and is reinforced through an ongoing skills maintenance program, including regular exercises and simulations conducted throughout the year. Most members of these teams are also medical first responders, enabling them to provide immediate medical care when required.

During ice rescue operations, when the use of a watercraft is not possible due to extensive ice coverage, teams may rely on specialized techniques involving rope systems, stretchers, and safe progression methods. These operations offer the advantage of being able to be deployed quickly, either from the shore or directly on the ice, depending on the assessment of the situation.