Virginia Beach Fire Department Swiftwater Rescue Team to Deploy to Texas for Disaster Flood Response

Eight members of the Virginia Beach Fire Department’s Swiftwater Rescue Team, VA-2, will deploy to Texas this evening under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) to assist with ongoing flood response operations. The team is scheduled to depart at 5 p.m. from the Harry E. Diezel Fire Training Center, located at 927 S. Birdneck Road.

The VBFD Swiftwater Rescue Team is one of approximately 30 specialized teams stationed throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia, ready to respond to water rescue operations during emergencies. This deployment marks the team's fifth mission since its formation in 2022. 

“We are proud to support our partners in Texas during this challenging time,” said Fire Chief Ken Pravetz. “Our Swiftwater Rescue Team is highly trained and prepared to assist communities impacted by flooding.” 

The Virginia Beach Fire Department remains committed to supporting emergency response efforts across the country while continuing to provide uninterrupted service to the residents of Virginia Beach.