HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The Lewis and Clark County sheriff's office is more prepared to respond to emergencies on three major Helena-area lakes this summer

The Independent Record reports (http://bit.ly/1l0c3sO ) the agency created a water emergency team and purchased two used Jet Skis for deputies to use to patrol Canyon Ferry, Hauser and Holter reservoirs.

Deputy Uriah Wood, a leader of the county's Search and Rescue team, suggested creating the lake patrol and rescue team. He says the department didn't have any patrol capabilities on the water and would have to borrow a boat to respond to emergencies.

Four deputies, a captain and the sheriff have trained on operating the Jet Skis and performing first-aid in the water. They also had to pass a rigorous swimming test.

The patrols begin this weekend and are to continue each weekend through August.

___

More From KBUL NEWS TALK 970 AM & 103.3 FM