This morning, Buckeye Fire Medical Rescue Department crews assisted the Arizona Fire & Medical Authority with multiple water rescues as heavy rainfall and runoff created dangerous conditions in the area.
In the first incident, firefighters successfully removed an adult who became stranded approximately 100 feet from the water’s edge in swift-moving water. The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office helicopter provided aerial support during the rescue operation, ensuring the safe extraction of the individual.
Shortly after that successful rescue, crews responded to a second incident involving a vehicle with two occupants trapped as water rose to three-quarters of the way up the vehicle’s doors. The vehicle was located roughly 30 feet from the water’s edge in fast-moving current.
Buckeye’s Technical Rescue Team, utilized a ladder truck to safely reach the vehicle. Two firefighter/rescue technicians entered the rear of the vehicle and successfully removed three occupants to safety. All fire personnel have exited the water safely, and no firefighter injuries were reported.
These incidents serve as a reminder of the power of moving water and the importance of avoiding flooded roadways. As a reminder: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
