JFD Trains on Panbowl

Members of the Jackson Fire Department spent more than four hours on Panbowl Lake on Monday to be better prepared when bad weather returns to the mountains.

Three new boats the department received through grants patrolled the lake's waters on July 7, as more than fifteen firefighters worked on watercraft maneuverability, tested equipment, and practiced life-saving techniques.

The boat teams made numerous passes up and down the lake to master the two new aluminum pontoon boats and the new flat-bed boat to be used in case of high water or swift water emergencies in the area.

“We do not have the opportunity to train in swift water at the moment,” Chief Chase Deaton said.  “We are taking this opportunity to make certain all of our firefighters are knowledgeable and confident in the operation of our watercraft.”

The firefighters practiced exiting the boat and reentering the boat during high-pressure rescue situations.

“We are constantly working to get better by training on new techniques and approaches to make our jobs safer and to ensure the safety of the people we serve in our community,” Deaton said.

Six Jackson firefighters were certified in April, and others will attend additional training soon.

Anyone interested in joining the Jackson Fire Department or the Rescue Squad should stop by the fire department on Brewer’s Drive for more information.