First responders headed out on the water Friday morning to participate in potentially life-saving drills.

Emergency responders from the Pequot Yacht Club, Fairfield and Westport fire and police departments all worked together on a search and rescue operation drill in Southport Harbor.

Assistant Fire Chief George Gomola said the drills allow first responders to work out the kinks in their communication system and response coordination.

This year marks the fifth annual drill participation as overseen by the U.S. Coast Guard.