More Than Fighting Fire: West Deptford FD Trains for Water Rescue

West Deptford - Nestled right along the banks of the Delaware River, West Deptford is the perfect place to spend the summer months and ride out those hot days. West Deptford firefighters are trained not only to fight fires, but also to perform search-and-rescue missions on the water.

Equipped with two rescue boats, West Deptford Fire Department volunteers are trained and ready to respond at a moment’s notice. Water rescue training allows volunteers to expand their skill set, all while keeping the community safe.

West Deptford firefighters practice using the rescue boats on the Delaware River and learn what to do in an emergency situation such as a flash flood, or when a civilian is drowning or missing.

Those looking to learn more about water safety, while igniting their passion for saving lives can sign up to volunteer at West Deptford Fire Department here: www.WestDeptfordFireFighter.org

“Summertime is a great time to freshen our water rescue skills, as it is more relevant, but they will stay sharp should we need them in winter. We provide all our volunteers the training and gear they need to answer the call, at no cost to them,” said Fire Administrator Rick Harris.

West Deptford is one of the few departments in the area that offers such diverse training including water rescue. Volunteer opportunities at West Deptford Fire Department include:

• Firefighter - Volunteer firefighters, ages 18 and older, respond to fires and emergencies in homes, commercial or industrial buildings, and along major roads. You will protect property, perform lifesaving search-and-rescue missions, and train for water rescue.
• Explorer/Junior Firefighter- Teens ages 14 and 15 can volunteer as an explorer, and teens ages 16 and 17 can volunteer as junior firefighter. Once the junior firefighter grows to the age of 18, they will be allowed to go through the Firefighter I course and become an active firefighter.
• Fire Police - Volunteer fire police, ages 18 and older, ensure the safety of firefighters at the scene of emergencies. Your duties include directing traffic and crowd control. You can also participate in water rescue training.

Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and expose oneself to a wealth of life-saving knowledge that can potentially save lives in future emergency situations.

To find out more information about volunteering or to sign up to volunteer visit the website at www.WestDeptfordFireFighter.org