June 28, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2002-27)
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
R. Steve Huffman
Public Information Officer
(251) 208-5806/Fax: (251) 208-5813
E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org
FIREFIGHTERS TAKE DELIVERY OF FIRE-RESCUE BOATS
Mobile Fire-Rescue Department has taken delivery of three (3) Sonic Jet Fire-Rescue Jet Boats. The boats which are approximately 12 foot in length and 7 foot in height and are equipped with a Mercury Marine Sport Jet 175 XR (175 horsepower) engine, dual 16 gallon fuel tanks, a Mercury Marine Single Stage Axial 750 gallons per minute (GPM) Fire Pump and other rescue and fire equipment. The boats have seating for three (3) and a place for a patient to be strapped in on a backboard. The boats are capable of firefighting fire as well as provide medical attention to injured or sick on the water. Two firefighter/firemedics will be assigned to operate the boats during missions or special events. Mobile Fire-Rescue Department plans to have the 3 boats in the water during the 4th of July weekend while the Tall Ships are docked in the downtown area. The cost of the boats are normally (approximately) between $52-68 thousand apiece, Mobile Fire-Rescue Department was able to purchase all 3 for approximately $20 thousand. One of the boats will be on display Friday, June 28, 2002 in the Exhibit Hall of the Mobile Convention Center until approximately 11:00 a.m. See Mobile Fire-Rescue Department web site at http://www.ci.mobile.al.us/firedept/ for a picture.
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