NEMA Conducts Surface Water Rescue Course in Exuma

GEORGE TOWN, Exuma – The National Emergency Management Agency, in continuing its efforts to building disaster resilient communities, recently conducted a Surface Water Rescue Course, Levels I & II for residents in this fast developing community.

The course conducted March 7 to 10, 2016 at the Resource Centre, involved l5 participants from various settlements on the island.  The course was sponsored by NEMA and its partner, the United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM).

The purpose of the training was to provide techniques and skills to members of the community in conducting Surface Water Rescues and Rescue Tasks.

The objectives of the training were to enhance correct execution of tasks, enhance communication between rescuers, and provide a guide for ongoing training.

Level I entailed developing site survey for existing water hazards, selecting water rescue personal protective equipment, develop an action plan for a shore-based rescue, deploy a water rescue device, how to escape from life-threatening situations, among other skills.

And, Level II included the following tasks: swim a designated watercourse, perform swimming surface water rescue, how to demonstrate defensive tactics in the water, and how to supervise, coordinate and lead rescue teams.

The opening and closing ceremonies were addressed by Clifford Strachan, Chief Councilor; Captain Joseph Hughart, US Public Health Services; Jeffrey Smith, US Northern Command (USNORTHCOM); Captain John Holland, US Public Health; Danny Strachan, Chairman, National Family Island Regatta; Police Supt. Daniels; Neil Campbell, Island Administrator, Exuma; and Captain Stephen Russell, Director, NEMA.

The participants were charged with protecting themselves first at all times, being their brother’s keeper, selecting a team leader and support members, continuing training, keeping equipment and gear in working condition, having meetings and knowing the protocol and operational procedures for the activation of the surface water rescue team.

The Exuma Swift Water Rescue Management Team Members are: Kelalrico Burrows, Team Leader; Nyoka Davis, Deputy Team Leader; Glen Davis, Safety Officer; Kerrington Rolle, Logistics Officer and Boat Engineer; and Barry Davis, Boat Captain.

Participants: Tyler McKenzie, self-employed; Fabian Davis, self-employed; Kevica Kelly, Dwayne Gardiner, Bahamas Customs; Kerrington Rolle, self-employed; Clifford Strachan, Chief Councilor; Neil Campbell, Administrator, Local Government; Barry Davis, self-employed; Brandon Pinder, self-employed; Kelalrico Burrows, Royal Bahamas Police Force; and Nelreco Brown, Royal Bahamas Police Force. Facilitators: Captain John Holland, US Public Health Services; Wendell Rigby, NEMA; and Luke Bethel, NEMA.