Rescue Squad Trains to Save Lives on the Water
First out on the boat-Jordan Peay/Rescue Member, Red Meredith/Safety Officer, Charles Chidress/ Assistant Chief, Brandon Keown/Chief and Todd Meredith/Secretary-Treasurer. PHOTO | Beverly Bonilla
Story and pictures by Beverly Bonilla
On September 30, the Butler County Rescue Squad conducted their swift water training class using Sonar, at the Aberdeen Boat Dock on Old River Road. The training was led by Chief Brandon Keown and Assistant Chief Charles Childress, with about 17 squad members in attendance.
Chief Brandon Keown and Assistant Chief Charles Childress. PHOTO | Beverly Bonilla
The class was part of the 20 state-required hours of land and water search training. Before the training started a life size mannequin was dropped in the water for the members of the squad to return and use the sonar to locate it. During the exercise we were also shown where the sonar also picked up the presence of a truck in the river. About three members at a time went out with the chiefs to search the water. The sonar was set at a 35-foot range (capable of 75 feet), they located the mannequin in 19.9 feet of water—with an actual depth of the mannequin being at 12.6 feet. Crews rotated in and out for hours, practicing until everyone had their turn.
Preparing to drop the mannequin. PHOTO | Beverly Bonilla
The Butler County Rescue Squad is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives. To continue their mission in helping the community, they need updated equipment and supplies, and they’re asking the community for help.
Sonar picked up a truck in the Green RiverCharles Childress. PHOTO | Beverly Bonilla
The squad has several ongoing fundraising efforts: You can visit their Butler County Rescue Squad Sales & Auction on Facebook. They have started purchasing pallets to start selling items on that page. They are also selling Mailbox Numbers which are reflective mailbox number signs for your home to make it easier for the rescue squad to find you faster. These signs cost $25, and you can contact the squad for the application form. If you are a member of Morgantown Bank and Trust, you can upgrade your debit card and when you use your card, a percentage will go directly to the Butler Co. Rescue Squad as well as 5 of the Fire Departments. This percentage will not come out of your pocket. Also, look for the Butler Co Rescue Squad at the City events, they will be sitting up a booth at the Holiday Hoopla on November 22nd.
For more information or to make a donation, contact Brandon Keown at 270-999-5596 or Todd Meredith at 270-999-1090.
The Butler County Rescue Squad reminds the community that every contribution, no matter how small, goes a long way in supporting their life-saving work.
Thank you to all the First Responders who help keep our community safe.
