Training in hazardous waters

First responders work in a swift current under the Longboat Pass Bridge July 15 to secure a safety line to a piling during a training exercise led by Team Blacksheep TRT. A Manatee County Beach Patrol team and other agencies gathered the week of July 14 at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach for training in swiftwater rescue situations. Islander Photos: Jacob Merrifield

Personnel from Manatee County Beach Patrol and other agencies, including the West Manatee Fire Rescue, train July 15 in Longboat Pass at Coquina Beach and the Longboat Pass Bridge in swiftwater rescue situations. The training was led by North Port-based Team Blacksheep TRT during the week beginning July 14. Participating personnel included firefighters, law enforcement, lifeguards and paramedics from agencies across Florida’s west coast.

Teams from area patrols and fire districts venture July 15 into the water of Coquina Beach to train for swiftwater rescue situations.

Team members drop in Longboat Pass from the bridge.