First responders prepared for water rescues as flood risk continues

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — In the event of a flooding emergency, first responders in Wilmington and New Hanover County are trained and prepared for water rescues – on the roads.

A New Hanover County Fire spokesman said they’re prepared for rain events and emergency calls have been steady. They’re even prepared for rescues, in the event of a vehicle submersion.

Training Captain Blake Turner said almost every staff member is trained to assist in these types of rescues.

“Emergency comes in, we are going to send the closest unit that is to the emergency and they are going to go out and see what’s going on,” Turner said. “They are going to attempt a rescue since they are trained to handle most of those emergencies. If they require special equipment they are going to make that call once they get there and call in for the special equipment to be dispatch to assist them and helping the public.”

Turner added they’ve had several calls of cars stranded in high water today.