FDNY Water Rescue Unit Trains for Swimmer Safety on Staten Island

FDNY Water Rescue Training

• 🚒 The FDNY's water rescue unit conducted a training exercise on Staten Island to prepare for emergencies involving swimmers.
• 🌊 Firefighters, often seen responding to fires, are also trained for water rescues, utilizing skills that some bring from prior lifeguarding experience.

Protecting Unprotected Shorelines

• 🎯 The training focused on areas of the shoreline not protected by lifeguards, where incidents like kayak capsizes or jet ski accidents can occur.
• 🚨 With 22 fire companies across the city designated for surf rescue, the FDNY responds to emergencies when 911 is called.

Collaboration and Safety Measures

• 🤝 The FDNY is training in tandem with national parks lifeguards, emphasizing a shared goal of public safety.
• ⚓ A tether line is attached to rescue boards during drills to ensure the safety of the rescuers returning to shore.
• ⚠️ While city beaches have seen no drownings this summer, the FDNY remains prepared for any eventuality, highlighting the unpredictable nature of water safety.