Port Vue VFD launches new boat
By Beth Hope-Cushey
Trib Total Media
The Port Vue Volunteer Fire Department recently added another layer of protection and service.
The department’s new swift water rescue boat took its initial voyage into the river May 16.
Port Vue Fire Department Chief Brandon Hale said he had been researching the boats for a while and thought it would be a great asset to the department and community.
“We are fortunate that the Port Vue council supports our department in all our endeavors,” he said of the boat, which was purchased through the U.S. Steel fund. “This boat with the dive team is one of the only ones in the surrounding area and will be equipped with a 15-person dive team and 16-person swift water team.”
It will be utilized as a search, rescue and recovery unit.
“The boat, along with the dive and rescue team, will help us arrive at a rescue faster than waiting for the equipment and teams that are housed several miles away,” Hale said. “This will allow us a faster response with a better outcome.”
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