We want to BE BETTER!!! Training is the path to get there. (fb)

Last night, the Elite Eight took advantage high Cape Fear River levels and swift currents that is a result of the large amount of rain we have experienced. This type of condition creates a dangerous currents that most swimmers, kayakers and boats are not used to causing a dangerous time for anyone to be on the water. To the opposite, it also creates a perfect training environment for our Buies Creek Swiftwater Rescue Team to practice and hone their skills for rescuing swimmers and boaters who call for help. Now is NOT a great time to be on the water with the rapids, rocks and other dangers, but emergencies occur when the water is rough which is why Buies Creek trains in these situations to be prepared to operate in all conditions. Our specially trained swiftwater team has the boats, equipment and training to operate in this type of environment. Personnel were able to practice boat operator evolutions, rope bag rescue, swimmer recovery and other skills. Harnett County Emergency Management was also in attendance gaining flight training time and experience using their unmanned aerial drone to assist with locating swimmers in the water and working with boat crews to direct them to the rescue location. Their technology with regular, zoom and infrared camera is a great addition to any mission. (fb)