The binational training will help ensure that both U.S. and Mexican agents on the border have appropriate safety training, and that they share valuable rescue techniques. The training is designed to increase agents awareness of the hazards of the border, foster relationships with local and federal officials who work on both sides of the border, and teach agents survival and search and rescue techniques tailored to the Arizona border environment. The training includes extensive physical and medical training and will culminate today in a rescue exercise, where officers will demonstrate techniques learned during the past week. This training demonstrates our continued commitment to safety along our shared border. Last year Border Patrol agents rescued more than 2,400 migrants from life-threatening situations.
Safety is the highest priority.
This latest initiative is a continuation of border safety efforts in Tucson Sector. In July, Chief De La Vi a launched Operation Sky Watch, an aerial surveillance program announced as part of the Border Safety Initiative. For Operation Sky Watch, seven additional airplanes were deployed to patrol the Arizona border, identify migrants in distress, and deter illegal crossings. In FY 2000, more than 1,300 migrants were rescued with the assistance of these aircraft and Border Patrol pilots. The Border Safety Initiative, developed two and a half years ago in close cooperation with Mexican officials, is designed to educate migrants about the risks and dangers of crossing the border illegally and to assist those who do not heed the warnings.