From people swimming without life vests to tractor trailers flipping over, Virginia Beach firefighters rescue people year-round.
“We’re the catch-all,” said Virginia Beach Fire Department Capt. Jonathan Taylor.
Most firefighters know how to rescue people from cold water. However, Taylor said Wednesday's training is meant to help those crews working without the right tools.
He’s teaching these firefighters how to be creative and safe.
Even in a warm February week, Taylor said they’ll see people in shorts and T-shirts jump into the 50-degree Lake Smith water.
Battalion Chief Joshua Goyet said he wants his men to train so they’re ready to respond no matter the situation. Sometimes that means jumping into the water without a protective suit.
“It’s maybe the fastest to save somebody,” Goyet said.