| Members of the Port Chester Fire Department recently participated in a hands-on Surface Water Rescue & Basic Inflatable Boat Operations training program.
Recognizing the increasing frequency of flash flooding and rapidly rising water—hazards that historically were uncommon along Westchester’s Sound Shore compared to neighboring communities—the department has made a significant investment in both water rescue equipment and member training to better protect their community.
Throughout the day, firefighters received instruction and hands-on training in:
* Deployment and use of throw bags
* Safe operation and deployment of the department’s two inflatable water rescue boats
* Victim rescue techniques from the water
* Boat handling, communications, and coordinated rescue operations
While Port Chester is fortunate to have an impressive number of Certified Swiftwater Rescue Technicians, incidents like these require the coordinated efforts of the entire department. Whether operating on shore, assisting with equipment, managing communications, or working from the boat, every member plays a critical role in the safe and successful outcome of these rescues.
A special thank you to the West Harrison Fire Department for assisting Port Chester and Signal 73 by providing access to an outstanding training location. Their support helped make this day of instruction possible.
When was the last time your department reviewed its water rescue equipment and operational capabilities? From the classroom to the water’s edge, Signal 73 can help prepare your members for the next time they’re called upon to respond to these high-risk, low-frequency emergencies.
Contact Josh today to learn how Signal 73 can customize training for your department. Jmiller@signal73fire.com |
