Loughs Agency staff traded their water testing kits for wetsuits and rescue lines after undergoing vital swift water training with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS).
The collaboration stemmed from NIFRS seeking information about potential training exercises on local rivers, mindful of the impact on spawning salmon. Discussions then developed into an opportunity for Loughs Agency personnel to sharpen their own skills in a potentially life-saving domain.
Dressed in dry suits and PPE, the participants received a thorough briefing from NIFRS instructors on navigating fast-flowing currents before learning critical techniques for self-rescue in case of an accidental plunge, and practising manoeuvres to reach safety unassisted.
The training progressed to throws and rescues, with Loughs Agency staff honing their skills in swiftly extracting a casualty from the water. The instructors then tackled scenarios involving snagged limbs and submerged victims, equipping the Agency participants with the knowledge to handle diverse emergencies.
Loughs Agency staff traded their water testing kits for wetsuits and rescue lines after undergoing vital swift water training with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS).
Sharon McMahon, CEO of Loughs Agency, commented: “The day proved hugely successful, instilling a newfound confidence in the team. We're immensely grateful to NIFRS for this invaluable training. Our staff now feel empowered to handle these situations themselves if necessary, or to confidently assist NIFRS when called upon.”
NIFRS Station Commander, Stephen Gaffney, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the broader benefits of the collaboration: “NIFRS and the Loughs Agency had a fantastic multi-agency training day on the River Faughan. This training enables us to share skills and knowledge, test our interoperability, and strengthen our operational response to water incidents. We look forward to continuing to build this interdependent relationship, where we can reduce risks and protect our environment.”
