The Higgins and Langley Awards honor outstanding achievements in the field of swiftwater flood rescue. In addition team efforts and singular incidents or acts of heroism, rescue professionals who have been dedicated to develop and implementing swiftwater rescue training programs are also recognized. The awards are presented annually during the National Association for Search and Rescue conference. Flooding is the leading cause of weather related deaths nationwide. Hundreds of people lose their lives in flood related disasters and other fast moving water incidents every year.
Hundreds more suffer serious water related injuries.
Rescuers who lack proper swiftwater flood rescue training and equipment are also at risk of serious injury and loss of life. In 1995 alone, three firefighters died in separate swiftwater flood rescue incidents. Although improvements in response capability are being made many public safety agencies, others remain inadequately prepared to perform safe and effective swiftwater and flood rescues. It is hoped that through the Higgins and Langley Memorial Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Swiftwater Rescue, awareness about the need for swiftwater rescue training and certification will increase, and more agencies will be inspired to develop viable water rescue programs for the protection of the public, as well as the safety of their personnel. Contributions are solicited to ensure the continuation of this award.