New rescue boat delivered to North Carolina firefighters

The Louisburg Fire Department of North Carolina has taken delivery of a new rescue boat built by Fluid Watercraft based in nearby Franklinton.

The 13- by 9.5-foot (four- by 2.9-metre) boat weighs only 185 lb (83.9 kg), making it trailer transportable. It is fitted with nine carry handles that will allow it to be easily deployed into and recovered from the water even without specialised equipment.

The craft features a Mercury outboard engine, two righting lines, bow and stern lifting eyes, an aluminium hull, and a hypalon tube with three chambers. The non-slip tube is tear- and puncture-resistant while the hull is able to withstand impacts from floating debris such as branches and rocks.

Up to seven people including crew can be accommodated on board. Four-inch (100mm) elephant trunk drains will help keep the deck clear of water to minimise the risk of sinking.

The vessel will be operated throughout Franklin County in central North Carolina.