Search and Rescue uses helicopters to train possible new team members. Photo courtesy of Butte County Search and Rescue

OROVILLE, CA (MPG) - This weekend, our team conducted our annual Air Operations, Marine Unit, and Swift Water Rescue combination training on the Thermalito Afterbay.

During this event, we train on basic Swift Water Rescue topics such as PPE, throw bagging, self-rescue into a boat, and pulling a subject into the boat over the gunwales, and prospective Swift Water Techs get their first orientation on this critical rescue discipline.

Search and Rescue trains hopefuls along with veterans during drills over the Thermalito Afterbay in Oroville. Photo courtesy of Butte County Search and Rescue

Additionally, we combined with our Air Operations Unit to practice static water short hauls, and 10-10 helicopter insertions. The 10-10 insertion involves two helicopter rescue technicians secured to the skid of our @Bell Flight 505 lowered to an altitude of 10 feet at a speed of 10 knots jumping in to swim to a drowning subject. We then short haul the subject with a cinch or rescue them into a watercraft.

This training was particularly special as we hosted representatives from @peoriapoliceaz and @peoriafiremedical. The Peoria PD and Fire-Medical Departments reached out the Butte County Sheriff's Office Aviation Unit after learning of the unique way our team utilizes our helicopters. They have purchased a Bell 505 and visited to get insight into our highly successful Helicopter Rescue Program.

These things we do, so others may live.