AF, Navy, Coast Guard, GovGuam participate in joint training

by Airman 1st Class Mariah Haddenham
36th Wing Public Affairs

5/1/2013 - ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam  -- First responders from both Guam's military installations and community agencies participated in water rescue training near Sirena Beach here, April 25, 2013.

The five agencies, including the 36th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire and Emergency services, Navy Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Guam, Guam Fire Department and Guam Police Department, worked together to rescue simulated victims from the ocean to train on effectively responding to real-world situations. Each agency conducts this training annually, but joined together for this scenario to get accustomed to each other's equipment, personnel, capabilities and processes.

"This unique scenario enabled us to successfully mitigate water rescue emergencies with our fellow first responders to protect Guam's Northern region," said Master Sgt. Crispin Pacificar, 36th CES Fire and Emergency Services operations assistant fire chief.

After receiving qualification in water rescue, the first responders must continue annual training in order to keep their certifications valid.

"I ensure everyone is proficient with their training," said Fire Capt. Jason Crandall, 36th CES Fire and Emergency Services water rescue team leader. "These joint-training scenarios help us identify and solve challenges in a safer, controlled training environment so that we can be prepared for what we may encounter during a real joint-agency emergency."

Water rescue certification requires first responders to show competent swimming skills, abilities in operating assigned water craft, understanding advanced life rescue techniques, effectiveness in various weather conditions and safety practices on scene.

"The training consisted of practicing the basic skill sets needed to accomplish a successful water rescue," said Crandall. "During this training we try to closely simulate the environment we have to face during a real emergency."

The training also served as an opportunity for each department to share operational knowledge and experiences, and provided a chance for first responders to improve their water rescue capabilities, both as individual services and as a joint-service effort.