Local fire departments said more boaters and swimmers, plus a fast moving current mean their rescue drills on the Passaic River are more important than ever before.

Garfield and Elmwood Park Fire departments conduct swift water rescue drills each month so techniques are fresh in the minds of rescuers.

Fire authorities said the river is more populated than ever and changes tides every six hours. They said the river has been known to rise in a dangerous place.

"These drills are especially important for emergency workers. During the last nor?easter, they had to evacuate homes alongside River Road. The water went all the way up to the high school," Lt. Bob Fanslau, of the Garfield Fire Department, said.

Those involved said sharing knowledge and equipment between the two departments is vital.