Kelowna Fire Department showcases new fire rescue boat
The Kelowna Fire Department recently unveiled their latest addition to their fleet – a state-of-the-art fire rescue boat. The new boat, named “Rescue 1”, was demonstrated to the public on Tuesday at the Kelowna Yacht Club.
The fire department’s marine rescue team, along with Mayor Colin Basran and other city officials, were present at the event to showcase the capabilities of the new boat. The demonstration included a simulated rescue operation, where the boat’s advanced features were put to the test.
According to Fire Chief Travis Whiting, the new boat is a significant upgrade from their previous one, which was over 20 years old. He stated that the new boat is equipped with the latest technology and will greatly enhance their ability to respond to emergencies on the water.
One of the most notable features of the new boat is its ability to pump up to 1,500 gallons of water per minute, which is more than double the capacity of their previous boat. This will allow the fire department to quickly and effectively extinguish fires on boats or along the shoreline.
In addition, the boat is equipped with thermal imaging cameras, which will aid in locating victims in the water during rescue operations. It also has a heated cabin, allowing the crew to operate in colder weather conditions.
The new boat was purchased for $850,000, with funding coming from the City of Kelowna and the provincial government’s Community Emergency Preparedness Fund. Mayor Basran expressed his gratitude towards the government for their support in acquiring the new boat, stating that it will greatly benefit the community.
The Kelowna Fire Department’s marine rescue team is responsible for responding to emergencies on Okanagan Lake, which sees a high volume of boating activity during the summer months. The addition of the new boat will ensure that they are well-equipped to handle any situation that may arise.
The demonstration of the new fire rescue boat was a success, showcasing its impressive capabilities and highlighting the dedication of the Kelowna Fire Department in keeping the community safe. With the addition of Rescue 1, the department is now better equipped to handle emergencies on the water and provide timely and effective assistance to those in need.
