Juneau crews train for swiftwater rescues
Published 11:30 am Monday, August 24, 2026
Capital City Fire Rescue crews got more than their feet wet during intense training last week.
Members of Capital City Fire Rescue’s (CCFR) Water Rescue Team put in six demanding days of Swiftwater Rescue Technician training with Water Training Resources.
“Training in Juneau means training in the environment where we respond: cold glacial water, fast-moving rivers, changing water levels, difficult access, and conditions that can become unforgiving very quickly,” said CCFR in a Facebook post.
“Our water rescue members train for incidents throughout Juneau, from swiftwater and flooding to the lakes, rivers, and coastal waters that surround our community. This training builds on the skills, teamwork, and decision-making needed to operate safely when conditions are at their worst.”
CCFR expressed appreciation to the instructors from Water Training Resources, saying the relationships built over the training have made its program stronger.
“We train hard because when the call comes, our community is counting on us to be ready,” according to CCFR, saying members continue to put in the time and hard work to improve their skills.
Recently released July statistics show CCFR responded to 553 emergency incidents, including 440 EMS and rescue incidents, which accounted for approximately 80% of the traditional emergency response workload.
“July was another busy month for Capital City Fire Rescue, and the numbers continue to show the broad range of services our members provide throughout the Juneau community,” stated CCFR
The Community Health Division recorded an additional 633 calls, reports, transports, and client encounters, representing a combined 1,186 calls for service and service activities during July.
“These numbers tell an important story about today’s CCFR,” said the department. “Our work goes well beyond responding to fires and medical emergencies. Every day, our personnel are involved in prevention, education, behavioral health, substance-use response, community health, case management, inspections, investigations, and many other services that support our community.”
