Swift Water Rescue Team

Whippany is located in an area with several bodies of water that vary in size and intensity. These bodies of water are a source of recreational pleasure, but pose immediate danger to those that work and play in and around these bodies of water. Also, it has become all to common to hear about a violent storm moving through the area, causing flooding and stranding motorists. Many people take these storms for granted, but the power of only a few inches of water can be devastating, it can even sweep away a fire truck (ask one of swift water technicians about it!).

In 1939, Chief James Tighe purchased the first rescue boat to aid in drowning operations. Since then, we have made a few improvements, most notable in 2000, when the WFD purchased a Zodiac Swift water rescue boat and had a team of firefighters trained to the Swiftwater First Responder level. These Personnel are provided with shore-based rescue techniques and defensive swimming training in a swiftwater environment. This provides fire personnel with needed skills to protect themselves and the public. A select group of these firefighters have gone on to the Swiftwater rescue Level I – Technician level which covers scene management, hydrology and river hazards, boat based rescues, technical rescues systems, contact rescues, victim assessments and stabilization, and this still only scratches the surface.

The Whippany Fire Department Swift Water Trailer is equipped with a Zodiac Rescue Boat, 14ft metal row boat, personal flotation devices, helmets, and rope-throw bags for the protection of all personnel in and around water-related incidents.