VIDEO: Several local agencies took part in water rescue training in Kennewick as first responders worked through canal emergency scenarios and shared safety reminders for the Tri-Cities community. The exercise brought together Benton County Fire Districts 1 and 4, Kennewick Fire, Richland Fire and the Kennewick Irrigation District. Officials said the training focused on rescue methods and public awareness around canal and waterway dangers.

Kennewick Deputy Chief Jake Van Horn says although incidents like this happen around once every season, the need for training and education is very important. “The risk for water rescue is real,” said Deputy Chief Van Horn. “It’s not a frequent emergency, but it is something that we could have to respond on at any time. And it’s something we want to be prepared for.”

Officials said the exercise highlighted reach, throw and go techniques along with general water safety tips. Richland Fire Battalion Chief Josh Smith explained that canals are not meant for swimming because of hazards hidden below the surface. “There’s a ton of unknown hazards that lie underneath the water. So don’t assume that this water is safe because there’s mud. There could be glass in the mud and various things that blow into the canal systems. They’re not a place where you should find water recreation,” said Battalion Chief Smith.

Officials also say canal water can move from two to five miles an hour, which can quickly knock someone off balance and carry them downstream. Not to mention they could potentially be filled with chemicals, like ones that treat and kill aquatic plants. Jason McShane, acting district manager for the Kennewick Irrigation District, encouraged people to choose safer places to cool off in the summer.

“We have lots of splash pads. We’ve got our public pools. We’ve got other private pools that are available for the recreational units. The new Pasco Aquatic Center is available, for that. I would suggest that we could probably use additional recreational facilities for, for the hot summer months, but the canals are not the choice for that,” said McShane.

KNDO-TV NBC 23 Yakima

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PHOTOS: Jake Johnson, the Lacey firefighter hospitalized after an off-duty fall on July 19, has succumbed to his injuries. His firehouse, Lacey Fire District 3, announced his passing on Wednesday, July 29. “Jake was a firefighter, a teammate, and a friend who answered the call to serve others with courage and compassion. His loss is felt deeply by everyone who knew him and served alongside him,” Lacey Fire District 3 said in a social media post.

Community members are asked to keep Johnson’s family in their thoughts and respect their privacy in the coming days. “Our hearts are with Jake’s family, his loved ones, his friends, and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss,” Lacey Fire District 3 stated.

Johnson’s accidental fall occurred the morning of July 19. First responders with the Olympia and Tumwater fire departments quickly responded, stabilized Johnson and transported him to Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, however, he was transported to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. He endured multiple surgeries to repair his internal injuries before his condition worsened on July 21, at which time he was placed on life support.

Nisqually Valley News – Metered Site

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Whitefish is exploring a second, fully staffed fire station north of the Baker Avenue viaduct to address growth.

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Mount Pleasant Village Board authorized $4.125 million in bonds for purchases including a new South Shore Fire Department fire apparatus.

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Moses Lake plans a temporary third fire station to improve north-end response times while a permanent station is designed.

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