Phoenixville Fire Department Adds New Rescue Boat, Truck

PHOENIXVILLE, PA — The Phoenixville Fire Department further expanded its water rescue reach recently when they added a new boat to their feet.

The new vessel - dubbed Boat 65 - is an Achilles 14' commercial and rescue inflatable craft. It has a 35 horsepower jet drive motor, officials said.

The department has been preparing and training for the past year and a half for the addition of the new boat, along with a new Ford F550 truck - Squad 65 - to carry it.

"In 2017, our leadership made a decision to add this service due to a reduction of boat rescue resources in the area along with an ever-increasing use of our local waterways for recreation," the department said in a statement announcing the addition. "The last year and a half was spent training personnel, acquiring equipment and modifying our building to house the new equipment. In addition to the boat and trailer, a used squad vehicle was purchased to tow the boat as well as store additional water rescue equipment."

Officials said the project cost about $90,000 altogether. It was funded by an annual grant from the state's Fire Commissioner's Office, state relief revenue, and money donated from the community.

Image via Phoenixville Fire Department