River City Prepares For Emergencies

A river town experiences a fair number of water related emergencies, and the cities who count rivers and lakes in their service area need specialized equipment and training to respond. Prescott Fire and Emergency Medical Staff recently approved funding of the Dive Team, with wording to coordinate the unique dual state jurisdiction of the St. Croix and Confluence. Prescott will also construct a structure that will house necessary equipment close to the water, to provide the quickest response to a river rescue. From pleasure craft that moor in the Point Douglas Park bay to the hundreds of boats that pass under the lift bridge, crews need to be ready to help with diverse situations including collisions, swimming accidents, and medical issues that may require help on the water. Prescott Fire Chief Tom Lytle (little) stressed that several items came before his department at the annual meeting including collaboration with the River Falls EMS department. The River Falls department has agreed to increase regular communication that will include the Prescott Police Department in making efficient use of the shared resources and strengths of each department for the continued protection of the public they serve.