Local partnership improves Marine Rescue

Historic City News has learned that St. Johns County Fire Rescue has been training to improve response capabilities for marine rescue emergencies.

As a coastal community, we have experienced an increase in boating and drowning events. To improve these responses, we have looked for water rescue apparatus that is capable of quick deployment without the use of a boat ramp, can be carried to a variety of launch sites, and has the ability to handle rough surf conditions while keeping responders safe.

The solution was two Inflatable Rescue Boats, small vessels used worldwide by public safety agencies for water-related emergencies including surf, swiftwater, and flooding.

St. Johns County Fire Rescue formed an Interlocal Agreement with the St. Augustine Port, Waterway & Beach District, who agreed to fund the purchase of these two rescue boats, totaling more than $24,000. The final approval of the project will go before the Board of County Commissioners in August.

“This is a great example of a local partnership of two agencies working together to provide public safety to the community”, said County Administrator Michael Wanchick.

Photo credit: Historic City News photographer Kerry McGuire