By Heather Collins
Several Carmel firefighters left behind their 75 pounds of regular gear to spend time completing water rescue training July 18 to 20 at the Hamilton County Training Facility.
The crew was led by Battalion Chief Gary Brandt, CFD’s expert in specialty fields. Brandt nearly 30 years of experience through training and speciality task forces, including Task Force One, which assists with rescue and recovery efforts.
CFD trains in all aspects of water rescue scenarios each year, including how to turn over a capsized boat, maneuvering in the water, pulling a patient into the boat and rope and rescue techniques.
CFD firefighter and spokesman Tim Griffin said the yearly water rescue training is key for staying prepared during the summer months.
“It’s so important because we want to be the very best we can be for the community and citizens we serve. And that includes all aspects of rescue operations from water rescue, fire suppression, EMS, hazardous materials and everything in between,” Griffin said. “Not to mention we know that every year we will be called to these types of calls, so we need to be prepared.”
CFD is called to several water rescues each year at local rivers and retention ponds, Griffin said, especially after heavy rains. In the winter, CFD also participates in ice rescue training at the facility. The Noblesville training facility allows the CFD to have a location for fire training, EMS training, water rescue, search and rescue and more.
Griffin encourages the community to practice water safety by watching the weather, making sure to pack all safety equipment, wearing a personal floatation device on the water and being responsible with alcohol use.
