CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – Clarksville Fire Rescue’s new Water Rescue Trailer made its maiden voyage late Thursday, July 9, deploying to rescue three people stranded on the Big West Fork Creek after dark.
“The three individuals were located on the edge of a steep embankment, without shoes and life jackets,” Capt. Troy Shepherd said. “They were scared, lost, it was pitch black, and one of their pool floats was flat.”
Clarksville Fire Rescue recently purchased the equipment for the Water Rescue Trailer and 20 firefighters recently completed multiple water rescue training classes. The trailer and equipment are stored at Fire Station 10, near the Blueway, and the station is staffed with Swiftwater Rescue Techs.
“It was our team’s maiden voyage and it went great,” said Lt. Jim Eley, one of the leaders of the CFR Water Rescue Team. “We are so glad that we have the equipment and capabilities to be able to provide the proper protection for our community.”
Eley also offered some advice for people who seek recreation on local streams and rivers.
“You need to be properly equipped and dressed, and you definitely do not need to be on the water anywhere near dark,” he said.