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The IHBA Rescue runs 2 rescue boats at each event. Each rescue boat has a full crew and is fully equipped with firefighting gear, medical gear, and an electric winch capable of lifting an entire submerged boat to the surface of the water. Although uncommon, 2 capsule boats have crashed during the same run; and they must have the ability to handle each incident simultaneously with 2 boats and crews. More common is a dual-incident run; where 1 boat crashes and the second is on fire; or when both boats are on fire. It is during these instances that Rescue utilizes 2 fully-staffed, fully-operational, fully-equipped and fully-capable boats.
Staffing and responsibilities are very specific. Rescue runs a minimum of 4 people on each boat. The boat captain is the most experienced person on the boat, and along with driving the rescue boat, is charged with making all decisions and providing direction to his crew. 2 certified rescue divers on each boat. In addition to therie qualifications, they are required to undergo training and extensive evaluation prior to being assigned to a race. The 4th member of the crew is the firefighter/medic. This person is highly trained and experienced in firefighting and medical care. Most of the staff that we assign to this position are professional firefighters with EMT or Paramedic certifications
Equipment, like personnel, varies from rescue team to rescue team. Regardless of where the race is, racers need to be comfortable in knowing that the rescue team has the equipment and expertise to handle any type of accident.
The LODBRS Rescue Team is comprised solely of volunteer physicians, paramedics and rescue divers from throughout the country. They take time out of their professional lives to assist drag boat racers, crews and fans alike; relying on sponsorships and donations to fund much of the costs associated with travel, equipment and maintenance.
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