Norristown Fire’s Water Rescue Program Lauded By State Fire Officials

NORRISTOWN, PA - The Norristown Fire Department’s swiftwater rescue program has earned the department recognition for its ability to perform moderately complex rescues, making it the the first department in Montgomery County to win the accolade.

Norristown’s Type 2A recognition, which is dolled out for moderately complex rescues for a six-member, all-hazard team, is valid from April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2026. The swiftwater inspection was conducted on Nov. 29, 2022 by the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety.

The recognitions were provided on behalf of the Pennsylvania Volunteer Rescue Services Recognition (VRSR) program, which is administered by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner through the Pennsylvania Department of Health to recognize emergency service organizations in swiftwater rescue.

The VRSR has five tiers of recognition based on team qualifications, available equipment and training as needed for safe rescue operations: Type 1a Team; Type 2a Team; Type 3a Team; Type 4a Team and flood evacuation.

There are only 34 swiftwater certified teams in Pennsylvania; Norristown is one of only 11 2A-certified teams in the state.

“I’m proud of our department’s commitment to excellence in public safety,” said Norristown Fire Chief Thomas O’Donnell. “This recognition illustrates the dedication that every member of the Norristown Fire Department displays daily in service to their community.”

Norristown Fire Department responds to around a dozen water rescue calls every year. All fire department personnel are also required to be trained in hazmat operations, helicopter operations awareness; swiftwater/flood awareness/water rescue, emergency boat operations and more, according to a statement from the municipality.

Some of the tools Norristown Fire Department has to support water rescue calls include a marine unit equipped with water rescue equipment and two swiftwater rescue boats with 40 horsepower motors, the department said.

A high-water rescue vehicle purchased in February is expected to be delivered to Norristown Fire Department this summer.