Alabama Swift Water Rescuers Deploy to Florida Ahead of Approaching Storm

As a tropical storm approaches the Florida Gulf Coast, a team of rescuers from Vestavia Hills is deploying to assist with search and rescue operations.

Six members of the Vestavia Hills Swift Water Team are heading to Florida on Saturday to aid in the aftermath of the tropical depression, which is expected to strengthen over the next 24 hours, according to a press release from the team. The team comprises personnel from the Vestavia Hills Fire Department, Hoover Fire Department, and Calera Fire Department.

"Vestavia Hills Fire Department always stands ready to help those in need," said Vestavia Hills Fire Chief Marvin Green. "We are proud to have the available assets – both highly-trained personnel and specialized equipment – to quickly assist in an impactful way and work to keep everyone as safe as possible."

The Florida Division of Emergency Management requested assistance through the Alabama Mutual Aid System.

The team may be deployed for up to 10 days. Additionally, a second team of 16 people from Mobile Fire-Rescue will also travel to aid the effort, according to a press release from the Mobile Fire-Rescue Department. This team includes fifteen rescuers and one member from the Mobile County Communications District.

The Mobile team specializes in rescue, trench operations, and structural collapse operations.

The Mobile team will deploy on Saturday evening to Marianna, Florida, where they will await further orders.