Shawnee Fire Dept Update 5/24/2015

Interim Fire Chief Dru Tischer reports the following from yesterdays event:

Shawnee Fire Department was dispatched to 21 water rescues starting around 8pm Saturday 5/23/2015 and pulled countless people from stranded vehicles. All rescued citizens were either delivered to their residences or taken to local hotels at their request.

They launched their rescue boats with members trained in swift water rescue at Garrets lake Rd and rescued four individuals form being swept down river. The inflatable boat did receive some damage during this rescue and staff used the aluminum boat to retrieve it as well as rescue staff and citizens.

Chief Tischer does want to acknowledge the tremendous help provide by the Del City Fire Department as they sent their rescue boats to assist at N Kickapoo and Westech while Shawnee boats were busy at other locations. Del City agreed to stay overnight at Station #3 in case any more assistance was needed.

Two minor injuries were reported of Shawnee Firemen but nothing serious. Chief Tischer says recently held additionaly training and equipment really paid off during this event.

Our hearts and prayers go out to the City of Claremore Oklahoma in regard to their loss of Fireman Jason Farley during a water rescue.

Various other City of Shawnee departments were busy as well with Police, Streets, Safety and others assisting in many different aspects of the evening. Thanks to all those employees and their efforts during these times.

Please stay alert, stay safe and stay out of rising water.