Training at a Professional Level

On July 21, 2025, the Minoa Fire Department conducted a hands-on water rescue training exercise at the lake in Erie Village to sharpen the Department’s ability to respond to emergencies involving individuals in distress in the water.

Firefighters mustered essential rescue gear on site, including a specially designed rescue canoe, life jackets, a life ring, and ropes. Before entering the water, instructors provided an overview of rescue procedures and emphasized a critical point: maintaining constant communication between firefighters and the person in danger.

With the introduction complete, instructors and firefighters took to the water to simulate a drowning scenario. As a “victim” acted out the motions of distress, a team deployed quickly in the canoe, reached the individual, and carefully pulled him aboard. Shore-based firefighters coordinated the effort by using a rope tethered to the canoe to swiftly haul the crew and rescued victim back to safety.

Once back on land, first aid would be administered, and the individual would be prepared for immediate transport to medical care if needed.

This type of focused, realistic training is just one example of how the Minoa Fire Department continually hones its life-saving skills. Residents of the Minoa Fire District can be confident that their fire department is professionally trained, mission-ready, and committed to serving the community with excellence.