Endicott, NY – Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo joined Endicott Fire Department officials to unveil their new fire rescue boats. The boats, totaling around $74,000, were purchased with a larger $250K Assembly grant secured by Lupardo. The grant also funded confined space rescue equipment, auto extrication “jaws of life” tools, elevator rescue equipment, and a complete set of structural firefighting turnout gear for each firefighter.

The main boat is a RescueOne Connector with flood lighting, night lights, and a diver platform. Also purchased was a ProX inflatable boat. Both boats can be transported on a twin transport two level boat trailer with scene lighting and electric lower capability for the upper level. They will have the option to deploy the upper boat without launching the lower boat. This equipment will make water rescue safer and more efficient.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo said, “I am always focused on the health and safety of our community and on the brave first responders who put their own lives at risk. That’s why making sure they have the equipment they need is so important. Endicott needed new turnout gear and important rescue equipment, including the two boats we are debuting today. I cannot thank them enough for their service; hopefully this new equipment will make their jobs a little easier.”

Lieutenant Dave Abell, Endicott Fire Department, said, “The Endicott Fire Department and Local 1280 members would like to thank Assemblywoman Lupardo for her continued support of emergency services in our area. This grant funding allows us to provide additional services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of the Village of Endicott, while also keeping our firefighters safe. With the Village bordering the Susquehanna River, these boats allow our on-duty crews to quickly respond to water emergencies, greatly increasing the possibility of positive outcomes.”