Firefighters Hit The Water For Swift Water Rescue Training
GOLDEN, Colo. (CBS4)- Firefighters from West Metro and South Metro Fire Rescue hit the water on Tuesday for swift water rescue training.
They practiced in Clear Creek in Golden. This is the time of the year when rushing water in Colorado can turn deadly.
"This time of year when we have the snow melt, we have increased temperature, we have more water coming down so we have more flow, so to have our guys train for rescue in these situations," said West Metro Fire Rescue firefighter Gabriel Jenkins.
Firefighters say it's important for all of us to understand the danger.
"They should absolutely respect the power of the water. It might look like you can play around next to it or walk into it but it's more powerful than you think," said Jenkins.
Even rescuers take that power seriously by training in teams and with all their safety gear.
If you do get caught in swift water, there are some important things to remember.
"If you get in the water, point your feet downstream. Try to keep yourself in a good position. Don't try to stand up... just wait for the rescuers to come," said Jenkins.
Firefighters also say keep children away from rushing water and wear a life jacket if participating in water recreation.