Rescue And Recovery Difficulty For First Responders In Harsh Elements

 For Immediate Release...

January 22, 2025 

RESCUE AND RECOVERY DIFFICULT FOR FIRST RESPONDERS IN HARSH ELEMENTS 

Sheriff Richard K. Jones reports it’s always important during below freezing temperatures to wear multiple layers and water-resistant clothing and is imperative that you always stay dry and monitor your body for signs of hypothermia or frostbite. Harsh weather can be very difficult and incredibly hazardous for first responders. 

On January 21, 2025, The Butler County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Response Services Team (ERS) and the Task Force One Dive Team faced extremely severe challenges while conducting their search and recovery mission of a subject whose vehicle was located in the Great Miami River. The water temperature was 32 degrees with air temperature at -3 degrees. The concern was for our personnel entering the water at such frigid temperatures which could have made this recovery extremely dangerous. 

Our ERS team trains incessantly in cold water and ice rescue and recovery. With the dangerous water temperature and their extensive training in these harsh elements, our Oceanid Rapid Deployment Craft (RDC) and underwater drone were utilized for our ERS and Dive Team to reach and recover the victim’s vehicle safely without putting divers in hazardous water conditions. 

B.C.S.O. On Twitter/X

Notifications

View current alerts, advisories and notifications from BCSO.