Hightstown Engine Company Asks Council to Purchase a Boat

The said they are in need of a boat and has asked the to purchase one since the fire company's is no longer operable.

“When you’re talking about someone drowning you only have minutes,” said Deputy Fire Chief Scott Jenkins.

Jenkins answered questions about the need for the boat at Monday’s council meeting, and stressed the importance of it should there be a water rescue.

“We are the least expensive emergency service in this town and we do not ask for much, we raise a lot of money on our own,” Jenkins said, noting they have been asking for a boat since November 2010. “This is something that we need their help with and they’re going to have to get on the ball.”

The fire department wants a boat called a Zodiac, which is an inflatable boat that has a motor. Jenkins said this type of boat takes much less room to store, can be inflated very quickly and only takes two men to put in the water.

“It would be a very delayed response, with the Zodiac it’s a much faster operation,” Jenkins said, comparing the inflatable boat to one you would launch at a boat ramp.

Although an ordinance appropriating $10,000 to buy the boat was tabled after a discussion, several members of council expressed support of the purchase. Council asked for more information on pricing.

“It’s our responsibility now to go out and look for the best equipment for the best price,” Kirson said.

Several members of council and members of the public expressed support for the boat, especially with the many events and activities held on and near .

“I think the boat is needed,” said Mayor Steven Kirson. “We are here to offer safety to our community. The lake facilities are being utilized more and I think even if we had to spend $10,000 at the most it would be money well spent.”

Anytime there is a call at in East Windsor, Hightstown Engine Company's dive team responds, Jenkins said. There are about six to eight members of the department who are trained divers. 

During Hurricane Irene, Jenkins rescued a man who was yelling from the roof of his car, which was submerged in water, as the water rushed from into the streets and the fire house. No equipment was used, and Jenkins said the water was up to his chest with a strong current. 

“The mayor and most of the council know how important it is to save lives and to support us to do so,” Jenkins said.

Hightstown Engine Company has about 40 active members, which are volunteers.