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SBSO DEPUTIES COMPLETE ADVANCED RESCUE BOAT OPERATOR TRAINING
To further enhance the St. Bernard Parish Sheriffâs Office’s response to emergencies on the water, several deputies recently completed advanced Rescue Boat Operator training, Sheriff James Pohlmann said.
Over the course of several days, deputies from the Marine and Patrol Divisions participated in the 20-hour course that combined classroom instruction and hands-on training led by Gulf States Dive and Rescue, focusing on real-world rescue scenarios.
Sheriff Pohlmann said the training reflects the agencyâs continued commitment to preparedness and public safety.
âOur Marine Division plays a critical role in protecting lives, especially in a parish where waterways are part of everyday life,â Sheriff Pohlmann said. âThis training ensures our deputies are ready to respond quickly, safely and effectively when seconds count.â
The Marine Division is a unit that operates under the Sheriffâs Office Special Operations Division, led by Col. Robert Norton.
Capt. Brian Clark, who oversees the Marine Division, said the course included exercises in vessel control, towing techniques, victim recovery operations, and simulated rescues in confined areas and multi-victim situations requiring quick decision-making.
He said the training was designed to mirror some of the high-pressure conditions deputies face during real emergencies.
âWhile the Marine Division plays a critical role during hurricanes and severe weather events, deputies also respond to numerous routine calls each month, assisting stranded boaters facing mechanical issues or medical emergencies,â Capt. Clark said. âTheir ability to maintain control, adapt quickly and execute safe, effective rescues speaks to their professionalism and dedication.â
Members of SBSO who participated included: Marine Division Lt. Shane Lulei and Sgt. Dusty Gould; Field Operations Bureau Patrol Division Lt. Gary Noriea, Sgt. Jacob Hadley, Dep. Christopher Acosta and Dep. Stephen Oalmann; and Traffic Division Sgt. Christopher Manno.
All participating deputies successfully earned their Rescue Boat Operator certification with an Urban Flood and Natural Waterway Operations Endorsement.
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