Start with swiftwater operations training, focusing on watercraft operations that are not motorized. If you aren’t ready for that kind of commitment yet, let’s contemplate a different approach. However, completing this objective would require swiftwater and watercraft operations training, technician-level experience and a motorized watercraft. Many organizations believe they need motorized watercraft and boat operators to successfully manage these scenarios. Roadway and low-level area washouts with either moving or stagnate water, leaving victims trapped in open water in vehicles or structures.Relatively fast-moving water that may carry large quantities of debris and objects or.

To illustrate what that looks like, let’s start with a common scenario in a flood environment: Rapidly rising water swells overwhelm drainage infrastructure and natural riverbanks, resulting in the following: In these cases, we can identify a progressive approach with building blocks and more focused capabilities, culminating with advanced skill sets and equipment. This is understandable, as such efforts require significant financial investment, training time, and willingness and ability within the ranks to meet the rigorous physical demands of performing water rescue.

However, most departments are not prepared for the magnitude of investment and training that is required to provide comprehensive water rescue services. The increasing number of flood-based emergencies over the last several years has driven more and more fire departments to seek assistance in developing or enhancing their water rescue capabilities.Īs I engage with these departments, it’s clear that some organizations can jump right in with both feet and have the funding, need and buy-in within the ranks.

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