SOUTH HAVEN, MI (WHTC-AM/FM) — South Haven Area Emergency Services (SHAES) is providing its paid-on-call members with water-rescue equipment that stays with the responders.
The funding is from an Albemarle Corporation of South Haven grant and has outfitted 19 SHAES’ responders with a fitted PFD – personalized flotation device (life jacket), helmet, and throw-bag containing 50 feet of rope.
SHAES equipment (ambulances, rescue truck, engines) also contain this equipment, but according to Chief Brandon Hinz, the paid-on-call members most-often respond from their home or workplace and are the first to arrive at an emergency scene.
“Minutes, if not seconds, count in this type of emergency situation,” said Hinz. “We are grateful for the continuing support of Albemarle as we strive to protect our community to the best of our ability.”
Hinz also thanked former Chief Ron Wise, who pursued the funding.
SHAES staffers have been participating in annual water rescue drills on Lake Michigan and Lake Arvesta. A recent drill included South Haven Police officers, who also have PFDs in their patrol cars.
