CHARLOTTE, N.C. – In response to the potential hazardous conditions caused by Tropical Storm Debby, Charlotte Fire’s swift water rescue team has been deployed to Elizabethtown, NC, Bladen
County. The team left the Charlotte Fire Special Operations Command this morning at 8:00 a.m. to provide critical support and assistance.
Battalion Chief Josh Johnson, who also serves as the North Carolina Task Force 3 Task Force Leader, emphasized the readiness and capability of the team.
“North Carolina Task Force 3 is a state asset manned by the Charlotte Fire. We’re a regional and statewide asset being deployed in response to Tropical Storm Debbie. We are assigned to the Eastern Branch Office and reporting to Elizabethtown, NC,” stated Chief Johnson.
The deployment consists of a Type 1 swift water team, whose primary mission is to rescue or evacuate individuals stranded by floodwaters.
Chief Johnson highlighted the team’s expertise: “Our members are part of Charlotte Fire’s special operations, an all-hazard organization specializing in swift water rescue, search and rescue, and urban search and rescue. These members typically ride fire trucks daily but deploy as a specialized water asset for missions like this.”
Chief Johnson expressed confidence in his team, noting their dedication and professionalism. “The members deploying are enthusiastic and highly skilled. They love what they do and excel at it. When we go down range, I have no doubt the job will get done effectively and efficiently.”
As the team heads to Elizabethtown, NC, Bladen County, Charlotte Fire remains committed to serving the community and providing critical emergency response services.
