(Cleveland)- White County Fire Services has taken some major steps toward improving public safety in Northeast Georgia. The department recently hosted a week-long National Professional Qualification (NPQ) Swiftwater Rescue course, one of the first of its kind in the region.

Twenty White County firefighters underwent five days of intensive training in Swiftwater Awareness, Operations, and Technician levels last week. The program prepared them for the dangerous realities of rescuing victims trapped in rivers, floodwaters, and other high-risk water emergencies. Each participant had the chance to test for — and earn — official NPQ certifications.

“This training is a significant milestone for our department,” said David Murphy, Director of White County Public Safety. “By hosting the NPQ Swift

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