N.C. Emergency Workers Prepare For Swift Water Rescues

During Hurricane Floyd, 52 people died in fast, rushing water from heavy flooding. This year, emergency workers want to be ready.

Members of the Highway Patrol, the Division of Motor Vehicles and other agencies participated in the swift-water rescue training exercise Thursday along the Neuse River.

The Neuse River simulates fast-moving flood waters, like the ones rescue workers were not equipped to handle during Hurricane Floyd.

"Up to 2 feet of water can wash a car away, can wash a car right off the side of the road. It's trapped, you're trapped and you become a victim," said Richard Caudliff of the N.C. Emergency Medical Services division.

The training was made possible by a federal grant received after Hurricane Floyd. The grant also provides for 5,000 life jackets and throw bags for rescue workers statewide.