After the mass flooding in the Midwest this summer emergency crews realize how important it is to be trained in swift water rescues.

The DNR and South Bend Fire Department wrapped up a river rescue school Wednesday on the East Race, to keep crews up to date and ready.

The three day program helped teach crews the basics about a moving water rescue.

Crews from as far away as Kansas and Kentucky came to participate in the training.

“There’s nothing else that can simulate moving water like the East Race can,” explained Captain Chris Baker of the South Bend Fire Department. “It’s a really safe training facility for us because we can control the water and we can control most of the aspects of going around with this water,” he added.

Another river rescue school will be held in September.

South bend has been hosting these training programs since the East Race opened 25 years ago.