Pittsburgh River Rescue Adds New Paramedic And Police Rescue Boat
By: KDKA-TV News Staff
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - There's a new resource on the waterways of Pittsburgh.
A new paramedic and police rescue boat is now part of Pittsburgh's River Rescue Unit.
As of last year, there were 264 calls for service, so the hope is this boat will expand the ability to save lives.
The boat has two V8 Yamaha 425 motors and enhanced features such as improved lighting, a windless anchor, and docking assistance.
"We live in the city of Pittsburgh, the majestic three rivers," said Pittsburgh Police Chief Scott Schubert. "We take for granted the things that could happen on the waterways and the training and experience our medics, to go and rescue people, is unbelievable."
The river rescue chief said the boat will carry two officers and EMS personnel who have spent an extensive amount of training to serve on this unit.
"The advanced technology that the newest of the city's river rescue craft provides will give police officers and EMS personnel the best chance of helping anyone who experiences an emergency on our three rivers," added Pittsburgh Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich.