Deputy Mayor Don Cody accepts the keys to the boat from Cole Hamilton at the river bank Monday afternoon. (Michael Joel-Hansen/paNOW Staff)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

Water rescue

Fire department debuts new boat

Sep 9, 2019 | 4:31 PM

The Prince Albert Fire Department has a new addition to its water fleet.

On Monday afternoon, members of the department unveiled their new rescue boat.

The boat was sourced from Tru-North Auto RV and Marine Sales in Prince Albert and has a number of features to help members respond to calls quickly, according to sales representative Cole Hamilton.

“The jet boat is awesome because they don’t have to worry about rocks and they can have the speed to react to a call in due time,” he said.

Besides the engine, Hamilton said the hull of the boat is designed for work in rivers. Sonar equipment along with a large deck will give firefighters the tool to search waterways and more room to work.

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Hamilton added they were happy to win the tender to provide the equipment.

Acting Fire Chief Kris Olsen points to the lining which will provide extra protection for the boat (Michael Joel-Hansen/paNOW Staff)

Acting Fire Chief Kris Olsen said the hull of the vessel will allow it to work in areas where there is less water. He said the bigger deck on the front of the boat will provide a staging area in cases where they need to pull someone from the water and place them on a backboard. According to Olsen, the new boat cost around $80,000.

“It’s a one of a kind,” he said.

The department took possession of the new boat last week and had firefighters out training on the river Monday morning. Olsen said they plan to train all their shifts on how to use the new vessel and its sonar equipment.

Acting Fire Chief Kris Olsen speaking with Deputy Mayor Don Cody and others about the new boat. (Michael Joel-Hansen/paNOW Staff)

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MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn