This year, there were two drowning deaths in Lawrence County.

One was the victim of this spring's flash flooding and the other was the victim of a misstep along the Ohio River. Both point to a need for swift water rescue training for area emergency services workers.

The Lawrence County Emergency Management Agency is answering the call for training with a Swift Water Awareness Training class. The course will be held Saturday, Sept. 28 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Ohio University Southern Campus. Registration is at 7:45 a.m.

"Emergency responders in Lawrence County and throughout the area are called upon to perform water rescue operations several times a year and can quickly be swept away in flood waters and drown," Lawrence County EMA Director Mike Boster said. "Our goal is to keep both responders and victims safe during those incidents. Therefore, training is important to prepare for these calls."

The course will feature Tim Rogers, a nationally recognized authority on flood, swift water and white water safety.

Participants will be introduced to the problems of water and rescue and will learn the procedures to follow when faced with such incidents. Boster said those who want to take the class should preregister by Sept. 9 so that course organizers have enough time to order certification materials.

Those who want more information may call the EMA office at 533-4375. Teresa Moore/The Ironton Tribune