Chattanooga, TN – The Chattanooga Fire Department’s Swiftwater Rescue Team was awarded accreditation from the State of Tennessee following their response to recent severe flooding events. Patrick Sheehan, director of the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), presented the certificate to the team Tuesday morning at the Chattanooga Police & Fire Training Center.
The 26-member team has spent years training, equipping, and preparing for specialized water rescues. Their efforts have already proven critical in life-saving operations, making them a deployable asset with the Tri-State Mutual Aid Association and now with the state of Tennessee.
In June, the team assisted in a flash flood incident at the Pocket Wilderness hiking area, rescuing 56 people trapped across a creek. On August 12, 2025, they were deployed during severe flash flooding in eastern parts of Chattanooga, rescuing motorists from submerged vehicles and stranded residents from flooded areas. The team also conducted thorough searches of affected areas to ensure no one was left behind.
To receive state accreditation, the team underwent an evaluation in June 2025 by TEMA. During the evaluation, they completed multiple rescues along the Tennessee River in a simulated scenario. One individual had capsized a kayak and was injured at the bottom of a steep embankment, while another clung to a tree in the middle of the river. Evaluators observed the team successfully rescue both individuals, demonstrating their readiness and skill.
TEMA stated, “We need to have the right resources in place to support Tennesseans—and others across the country—when they need it. The Chattanooga Fire Department’s Swiftwater Rescue Team officially became one of those assets through a lengthy state accreditation process. Thanks for the hard work and support, CFD.”
The accreditation cements the team’s status as a key resource for swiftwater emergencies and highlights their ongoing commitment to protecting the community during natural disasters.