Chester Volunteer Fire Department Boat Expected to Improve Marine Emergency Response
Those of us who live here know that we’re lucky to be surrounded by the ocean and the waters of countless lakes and rivers. For some of us, it provides our livelihood. For others, it’s the place we relax and test ourselves as sailors, swimmers, or surfers.
We also understand the dangers that come with the beauty and wealth of the ocean. For firefighters, the challenges of the ocean are very real, whether it be response to medical emergencies on boats or remote islands, or fighting fires in remote areas.
With their recent purchase of a new-to-them boat, the Chester Volunteer Fire Department (CVFD) has increased their effectiveness in response to those marine-based or remote emergencies. The boat will have some fire fighting capacity and will improve firefighters access to the ocean for water supply in the many hard to reach areas of our coastline. In addition, the boat can be used to support evacuation efforts in case of climate or other emergencies.
The boat a 2007- 22 ft Rosborough with twin outboards was purchased using CVFD funds augmented by a generous private donation. It will respond to emergencies when requested by neighbouring fire departments in the same way that local departments now send firefighters and equipment to support each other. It will also supplement existing marine emergency response services operated by the Coast Guard and police.
“We are proud that our department can make this contribution to the safety of the communities and citizens we serve,” Nick Hirle, Acting Fire Chief “I expect it will be a valued asset for our department and our fellow emergency responders in the area.”
