Milford FD Gets New Rescue Boat
The city of Milford, CT, took delivery of a 21-ft. Ribcraft 6.5 for its fire department’s marine unit, replacing a smaller, 20-year-old vessel. This larger specialized model enhances their search and rescue capabilities while providing a safe platform for expanded environmental protection efforts on Long Island Sound.
Operating on Long Island Sound and its tributaries, the department uses the RIBCRAFT to support their search and rescue missions to reach areas their larger fire boat cannot access. The Marine Unit runs side scan sonar operations and will use the new boat to support the rescue of identified objects in the water. Ribcraft worked with the Fire Chief and Chief of Operations to understand the department’s needs and outfit the 6.5 to meet their operational requirements. The department used their original smaller RIB as a guide in determining how the new rescue boat should be equipped.
The RIB features a center console with front bench seat, two side by side jockey-style pod seats, full size windscreen, T-top with aluminum hard top, and keel guard. Powered by a 150HP Yamaha outboard, the boat reaches speeds in excess of 45 mph. Equipped with a red multi-chambered heavy-duty Hypalon tube complete with reinforcing at the bow, boarding wear patches, and grab handles, the Ribcraft 6.5 provides a durable, stable, and seaworthy platform. The complete electronics package includes a LED law enforcement light bar, Whelen Hailer/Siren, 360 degree scene lighting, and Garmin VHF, GPS and radar.
