News

Cambridge rescue team practices flooding drills ahead of nor'easter

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Local rescuers are getting ready as a nor'easter heads our way.

Thursday was a picture perfect day on the water in Cambridge - but members of the Cambridge Fire Department were preparing for impending rain, flooding and wind.

MORE: As storm approaches, residents along coast warned to prepare for major flooding

The Swift Water Rescue team went over key scenarios, including putting a boat in the water to go after someone who needed to be rescue. It's one of the more dangerous things that firefighters can face because they can quickly become a victim themselves.

"Many people don't realize there are hazards involved. There's also hazardous materials in the water when these things happen because things end up in the water that aren't normally available just because of flooding. So, these guys will go in with that experience and that knowledge," said Cambridge Deputy Fire Chief Sean White.

When it's real... it can happen in an instant.

MORE: March coastal storm: 'We expect to lose homes'

"I think that if you walk with anyone who's been involved in a swift water incident, trapped in urban flooding, it happens rapidly and they're probably going to tell you they didn't expect it," said Cambridge Firefighter Peter Melo.

Stay updated through every step of the storm - make sure to download the Boston 25 StormTracker Weather and News apps.

WATCH THE FORECAST | DOWNLOAD THE APPS