Swift Water Training

Six members of the Harper Volunteer Fire Department recently completed a three-day Flood and Swift Water Rescue training course. This was not just classroom learning. The training took place in live water, requiring participants to perform actual rescues in fast-moving conditions. It was physically intense and included the use of rescue boats, giving our firefighters realistic practice in the kind of emergencies we may face here in the Hill Country.

Beyond the technical skills, the training gave our members the chance to work closely with firefighters from the Doss Volunteer Fire Department. These shared experiences build trust and strengthen the bond between departments, which is especially important when we respond together on mutual aid calls. Training side by side helps ensure that when an emergency happens, we already have the confidence and teamwork needed to keep our community safe.

We are proud of the six members who completed this rigorous course and grateful for their commitment to constant improvement. Another three members of HVFD are scheduled to attend this same training in the fall, further increasing our department’s readiness and capability.