The Grand Bay-Westfield Fire-Rescue Department now has a new emergency response boat for water rescues.
The department has expanded its emergency response capabilities with specialized equipment and training.
Fire Chief Troy Gautreau said the department has received calls for water rescues for years, but had no way to respond beyond shoreline operations.
A fire service review in 2023 identified the need for improved access to water emergencies.
“It’s been something that’s been on the books for many years. We’ve certainly been receiving the calls throughout the years,” Gautreau said.
Following the review, officials explored different options, including partnerships with other agencies.
After evaluating all possibilities, they decided to purchase a dedicated rescue boat and provide training for firefighters.
The new 2025 Highfield Patrol 600 Rigid Inflatable Boat was funded through the town’s 2025 General Capital Budget, approved by the council in late 2024.
Gautreau said this investment allows firefighters to reach incidents more effectively.
“This allows the members to be able to get out to where the incidents occur and cover a lot more area,” he said.
Beyond emergency rescues, the boat will also assist during seasonal flooding.
The fire chief emphasized that it will help firefighters patrol affected areas and provide aid to residents who may be stranded due to rising waters.
Training is already underway, with firefighters participating in classroom instruction and hands-on exercises.
Gautreau explained that the department is working closely with neighbouring fire departments and the Canadian Coast Guard to ensure crews are fully prepared.
“We’ve already had meetings with all of those different agencies, and we’re setting up training that will probably take place right throughout the summer just to keep the skills,” he said.
While no additional personnel are needed, existing members are receiving specialized training.
Many firefighters already have experience operating boats, which Gautreau said will help in transitioning to water rescues.
The department recently conducted joint exercises with the Welsford Volunteer Fire Department and Greenwich Fire Department, giving firefighters a chance to test the equipment in real-world scenarios.
Gautreau added that bringing this service to the community has been a long time coming, but now residents can count on a full-scale water rescue response.
“To see it kind of in place now, it creates a sense of relief that when those calls do come in, we now have that full capacity to go out and help in the best way that we can,” he said.
With water rescue now part of the department’s operations, Gautreau said the team is well-equipped to handle emergencies on land and water.
