New rescue boat for fire dept.

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The Baldwin Fire Department now has a newer and more efficient way of rescuing people in floods. A new rescue boat was purchased for the department after BFD officials reached out to Leg. Laura Curran’s office asking to apply for a county grant.

Chief Craig Yanantuono said the BFD has used a 16-foot fiberglass boat for over 30 years and an inflatable 15-foot Zodiac boat for about 18 years in the event of flooding. Following Superstorm Sandy, Yanantuono said, the Board of Fire Commissioner’s began looking into replacing the 16-foot fiberglass boat with something more modern.

Curran explained that the BFD entered into a inter-municipality agreement with the county to purchase the boat, after the county legislature approved it. The agreement allowed the BFD to purchase the boat and then be reimbursed by the county. Curran said the boat cost $40,000.

“We are a coastal community, and obviously prone to flooding, so this is a crucial piece of equipment to help our volunteer firefighters keep us safe,” she said. “It’s very reassuring to know that rescue workers and first responders can get to flooded residential areas quickly.”

Yanantuono said flooding has always been an issue, but since Sandy this equipment has become vital. Although it will not be used everyday, he added, the new boat is safer, more durable and can handle a larger passenger load than the Zodiac.

“It can be launched in the middle of the street in only a few inches of water and is complete with a lighting package that aids in safer night-time operations,” Yanantuono said. “As in any of our operations, the safety of the rescue crew must always come first — we think this vessel will be an invaluable asset.”

The new boat can be shared with other departments when needed and is stored on a trailer in the department’s headquarters on Grand Avenue.