CLEVELAND, Ga. — White County Fire Services has taken a major step toward improving public safety in Northeast Georgia. The department hosted a week-long National Professional Qualification (NPQ) Swiftwater Rescue course, one of the first of its kind in the region.
Twenty White County firefighters underwent five days of intensive training in Swiftwater Awareness, Operations, and Technician levels the second week of September. The program prepared them for the dangerous realities of rescuing victims trapped in rivers, floodwaters, and other high-risk water emergencies. Each participant had the chance to test for — and earn — official NPQ certifications.
“This training is a significant milestone for our department,” said David Murphy, Director of White County Public Safety. “By hosting the NPQ Swiftwater Rescue course, we are not only enhancing the capabilities of our own personnel but also strengthening regional preparedness for water-related emergencies.”
Building skills for a water-prone region
Northeast Georgia’s heavy rainfall and active rivers make swiftwater rescues a frequent reality for first responders. The course placed firefighters in realistic scenarios, from navigating turbulent currents to safely extracting victims.
Additional instructors joined the program to ensure a comprehensive and challenging training environment.
Backed by community support
The success of the training came with help from local partners. Truett McConnell University provided access to its swimming pool, Buck Shoals Wildlife Management Area opened its property, and the Lake Laceola community hosted firefighters at its lake while also serving lunch on September 11. Private landowners along the Chattahoochee River also pitched in, allowing access for field training exercises.
White County Fire Services emphasized that this type of training is crucial to keeping both residents and first responders safe. By investing in advanced certifications, the department ensures its crews are ready to face increasingly complex emergencies across the region.
