In 1984 the Wichita Fire Department embarked upon the concept of establishing a water rescue specialty program. The concept was to utilize a select group of highly trained individuals who possessed a keen interest and professional skill level in all phases of water rescue.
This program was so successful that the concept was expanded through the years to include a variety of specialty rescue functions. The Fire Department's administrative and training division incorporated vehicle extrication trench and high-angle rescue techniques into the rescue team program This progression was one of the main catalysts that fostered the housing of the core of the rescue team in one location at Station Four.
Through the years the fire department served as the emergency agency contact to any type of rescue not only in the city but also for many unique situations throughout Sedgwick County. In The initial phases of the water rescue team, members were called to a plane crash in Cheney Lake. Team members successfully recovered the victim of this tragic accident.
Since that time, rescue team members have been involved In numerous water-related accidents, ranging from retrieving vehicles submerged in area rivers and lakes to rescuing animals from local ponds. Our training program continues to emphasize the philosophy that team members need to be prepared and trained for the usual, as well as the unusual rescue situation.
All rescue team members are required to participate in more than 138 hours of intense basic training that cover the different disciplines of rescue work. Throughout the year company officers develop a variety of training courses to assist in the preparation of all rescue team members for the next emergency. This aggressive training program incorporates not only the personnel at Station Four, but also the other rescue team members located at various fire stations in Wichita. By utilizing both private and public facilities such as area grain elevators, water towers, storm sewers and sandpits, the team simulates actual environments where accidents are apt to occur.
This creative training has paid off' through the years as the rescue team has been instrumental in performing complicated rescues on a number or grain elevators. These feats have gained national recognition for the fire department and especially for the rescue team. Other departments that also have seen the need to develop specialty divisions for their communities have requested information on our training methods and standard operating procedures.
Wichita is fortunate to have individuals in the fire department who possess a high level of expertise in different specialty areas. Captain Mark Baker is a regionally known expert in all phases of high-angle rescue. Other members brought their experience and expertise in construction methods and a wealth of knowledge in all types of rescue work.
This specialty rescue team does not come without a price. In order to perform these rescues, the department had to purchase a variety of special equipment. As the program continues, additional equipment, new methods and tools are constantly being added. Team members have learned that in rescue work, the status quo is not enough. As our responsibilities continue to increase, so does the responsibility to improve our training techniques and knowledge in all aspects of specialty rescue work.
This program has become so popular that we have begun keeping a waiting list of firefighters on file for future team membership. Many individuals in the fine service realize that as the Fire Department plays a growing role in the community, so grows the responsibility to provide citizens with a quality service that addresses all aspects of emergency rescue situations. This dedication also crosses over into the area of public education and training for other public service agencies. The dedication and extra effort of individuals in the fire service who continue to give not only their time but also their special talents is to be truly commended. These individuals do not perform these tasks for personal glorification, but because they have a unique calling to help those in trouble. Wichita and the surrounding community can be very proud of the level of service that the Wichita Fire Department provides to the community.
The Wichita Fire Department has dedicated itself to a continual program of progressive and professional service to its citizens through a proactive program that incorporates not only fire and medical service but also creative and innovative specialty programs, the Fire Department will be ready to answer the call and serve the community in any emergency situation.
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