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Carmel Fire Department trains for water rescues

Posted at 9:36 PM, Jul 20, 2017
and last updated 2017-07-20 21:42:25-04

CARMEL, Ind. – Carmel fire crews headed out to the water Thursday to brush up on rescue training as dozens of people have been saved from waterways around Central Indiana over the past month.

Carmel Fire Department officials said they wanted to be prepared in case of an emergency.

"Even if you're an expert, things happen,” said Tim Griffin with Carmel fire. “That's why we want to make sure we're experts in this field. So we get out there and when those days happen and it's their worst day, we can help them and make sure it ends well."

Griffin said training this season is more important than ever since the area has seen lots of rainfall.

"Especially this year we've had a ton of water even more so. It's coming and having droves so we all have days where we get 4 to 7 inches in an hour,” he said.

During the training, water rescue crews learned how to swim through rough water and how to turn a boat back upright if it capsizes.

Firefighters recommend keeping the following water safety tips in mind:

  • Wear a life vest
  • Check the weather before you leave your home
  • Watch the water for rough conditions and high levels

 

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