WASHINGTON (Map, News) - For years, accidental drownings in the Potomac River Gorge were something to be expected, with the swiftly moving waterway claiming from two to six lives each year.

That trend came to a halt in 2005, and since then no one has drowned by accident along the gorge. Now rescuers are digging in for another busy recreation season and hope the reprieve continues.

Crews from the region’s fire and rescue agencies came together on Thursday morning to demonstrate the techniques they bring to bear in dozens of missions each year along the 14-mile run of the Potomac River and nearby Billy Goat Trail.

The treacherous nature of the 14-mile gorge was apparent: The waters, pulling in strong currents along jutting rocks just below the surface, appeared at times to challenge even the powerful swift-water boats as they piloted upstream.

Fire and rescue officials hoped the event, timed to be shortly before Memorial Day weekend, would amplify a safety message to hikers and boaters who come to the gorge, which is part of C&O Canal National Historic Park.

Officials say they’ve seen a rise in accidents in the area that have left hikers with broken bones, sprained ankles or head injuries. The park service recorded 23 injuries last year.

Also in 2006, the gorge saw 14 water rescues. Rescuers make use of the gorge as a quick conduit to reach injured hikers.

“We pick the easiest route, whatever is easiest for the victim and us,” said Capt. Frank Doyle of the Montgomery County fire and rescue department, overseeing a mock rescue attempt in which volunteers and career staff lowered one of their own in a stretcher-like “stokes basket” down a steep, rocky decline.

Along with Montgomery County, Thursday’s effort included the National Park Service , U.S. Park Police, Fairfax County and D.C. Fire and Rescue departments, and the D.C. Police Harbor Patrol.

wflook@dcexaminer.com