ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. -- The St. Johns County Fire Rescue Department is using two new Kawasaki STX-15 jet skis, two Extractor rescue sleds and two aluminum trailers.
The equipment was obtained through a partnership with the St. Augustine Port, Waterway and Beach District.
The county determined the Fire Rescue Department would need the jet skis and other pieces of equipment to keep their operational capability for marine rescues. However, due to a lack of funds in the Marine Rescue budget, the county was not able to purchase the equipment.
St. Johns Fire Rescue asked the St. Augustine Port, Waterway and Beach District with a description of the service provided, what the capabilities of the jet skis would be and the department's operational needs.
Deputy Operations Chief Joel Sneed at the May 15, 2012, port, Waterway and Beach District meeting presented the proposal. The board unanimously approved the proposal and donated $23,700 for the equipment purchase.
Jeremy Robshaw, St. Johns County Fire Rescue Marine Rescue Lieutenant said St. Johns County Fire Rescue wanted to express their gratitude to the St. Augustine Port, Waterway and Beach District Board of Commissioners for continuing the partnership program with St. Johns County Fire Rescue which allows both organizations to better serve the citizens and visitors of St. Johns County.
First Coast News