LMPD River Patrol uses rescue boats to survey flooded River Road

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The only way first responders can get around some areas of Louisville's waterfront is by boat, navigating the highest floodwaters since 1997.

So the Louisville Metro Police River Patrol and Dive Team are making good use of new rescue boats and dive truck to help keep people safe during this historic flooding event. In fact, patrols have been fielding several calls for rescue in addition to their daily duties.

WDRB accompanied the team Wednesday in a ride-along down River Road to get a glimpse of the challenges they face during rescue and recovery efforts. And sitting about 3 feet above ground on LMPD's newest rescue boat, it is quite a sight to see: an abandoned SUV, street signs peeking above water and the only indication of the train tracks a railroad crossing sign.

A water current of 3 to 4 miles per hour, and debris pose a threat to the safety of crews among other concerns.

"(We don't know) how deep the water is or what's under the the water," said Trever Blakley, sergeant of the LMPD River Patrol. "Fortunately, we know the electric has been turned off to a lot of these places."

For safety, the crews only travel the roadway by boat. They use extra caution to avoid hitting debris and road signs submerged in water.

And this is just a small glimpse of what river patrol and divers deal with. However, the new equipment in the past year has helped tremendously, including a dive truck the team likes to call a toolbox on wheels. It's equipped with water rescue gear, power tools, flood lights, and the dive team can refill oxygen right from the truck.

"It's essential to carrying all the equipment we need," said Chad Crick, commander LMPD Dive Team. "... There were times that we had to take two different vehicles or times we had to leave and go back and get things we need to go on different missions."

The team doesn't expect the call-outs to slow down just yet, but, as the water starts to recede late this week, they should be able to return to normal operation.

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