A number of firefighters from all over metro Atlanta have been out of the station and at a Six Flags water ride the last few days.
It’s not what it sounds like, though.
The first responders have been using Thunder River in the Austell amusement park to train for river rescues.
“Thunder River is a safe and fun attraction for park patrons, but it also mimics many of the turbulent waters that rescuers respond to each year,” according to the Gwinnett Fire Department.
Firefighters were brushing up on swimming across strong currents, practicing swiftwater rescue techniques, remembering how to deal with obstacles in the water and learning self-rescue and survival methods.
The department said that the ride is “an excellent example of basic river dynamics and hydrology features.”
Along with Gwinnett, firefighters from agencies in Marietta, Austell and Atlanta in addition to Cobb, Hall and Forsyth counties participated.
The City of Marietta posted a video on Facebook showing a behind-the-scenes look at the training.
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