Watch Hill Firefighters participated in a twenty-four hour Fast Boat Operations training class which included lectures followed by various practical on water training exercises. This training class was developed and designed specifically for first responder agencies whose mission includes the use of small, fast vessels in less than ideal conditions on a regular basis.

Presented by instructors from Ocean Rescue Systems International, this intensives program of lectures combined with hands on training is designed to prepare successful candidates with the basic skills required to operate small rescue boats safely and effectively under various weather and water conditions.

The basic topics included rescue boat design and function, rescue operations in various water and weather conditions, effective victim removal and rescue techniques, crew responsibilities, utilization of rescue swimmers, safe boat to boat transfer techniques, limited visibility operations, and search patterns.

Our appreciation is extended to Chief Kettle and the Charlestown Ambulance and Rescue Service for coordinating the class.

Our appreciation is also extended to Misquamicut Fire, Dunns Corners Fire, Warwick Fire, Charlestown Rescue, and Charlestown Harbormaster for sending boats and first responders to participate in the training classes.