Longboat firefighters take the plunge for clean water

Longboat Key firefighters took the plunge May 16.

Dozens of first responders serving on area marine units joined them and dived into the water near the Manatee County Marine Rescue at Bradenton Beach.

It was an act meant to raise awareness and show support for Islanders 4 Clean Water.

Participating organizations included West Manatee Fire Rescue, Manatee County Marine Rescue, North River Fire Rescue, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Longboat Key Fire Rescue, Manatee County Search and Rescue and Sarasota County Fire Rescue.

“This group of first responders is committed to helping keep our area’s waterways clean,” the press release stated.