CCSO trains with U.S. Coat Guard to enhance search and rescue capability
Still shot from CCSO video.
Citrus County, Florida, April 28, 2023 - Last week, the Citrus County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) Marine Unit partnered with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) in a two-day training to strengthen Search and Rescue (SAR) capabilities in Citrus County's waters. Nearly 25% of Citrus County is made up of various waterways, to include rivers, canals, lakes, and the Gulf of Mexico. As a result of this, it is essential our marine deputies have a complete understanding of the best practices to locate an overboard individual.
"We are proud to be able to provide this hands-on crucial training for our marine deputies, in the event we experience a real-life scenario or are called upon to assist another agency," said Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast. "As a member of the Florida Sheriff's Association's Regional Task Force, one of our Marine Unit's prime responsibilities is to be a vital resource to respond to our counterparts in need during an urgent situation. This training establishes that our team is well-prepared and experienced during a life or death situation where every second matters."
During any SAR effort, the CCSO teams up with the USCG to deploy assets using USCG SAR methods, such as the Victor Sierra Model, Creep Model, and the Expanding Square Model, to rescue an individual as quickly as possible. Following these methods increases the likelihood of our deputies locating an overboard individual within those critical first couple of hours. These SAR methods render a customized search pattern based on a variety of conditions, like water currents and wind force that profoundly influence the displacement of the individual.
The first day of training included mapping and practicing these models. The second day of training included a simulation of an overboard individual - using a 5-gallon bucket with a life preserver, which is equivalent to a 180-pound person. The CCSO Marine Unit was able to utilize those SAR models to successfully locate the simulated individual.
With summer right around the corner, now is a good time to brush up on your boating safety skills. We always recommend that you prepare a float plan and wear a lifejacket while on the water!
View CCSO video here: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=907804470452810.