Earlier this month, the Port Washington Fire Department acquired a cutting-edge 2023 Polaris Firefighting/Emergency Medical Service Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV), made possible through a generous New York State grant sponsored by Assemblywoman Gina L. Sillitti of the 16th Assembly District.
“When I first became a member of the Assembly, I awarded my first grant to the Port Washington Fire Department. Fast forward 3 years and the Polaris is finally here,” said Assemblywoman Sillitti in a Facebook post. “This ATV will be vital for their rescue efforts and for fighting fires in hard to reach locations. This was definitely worth the wait and I was so glad I was able to help the first responders who do so much for us.”
According to the Port Washington Fire Department on Facebook, “This essential addition responds to the community’s growing need, with extensive nature trails, vast remote areas, and a rising number of large-scale events. The UTV, equipped with 4-wheel drive, power steering, specialized tires, and a spacious cab seating six, becomes a vital asset for firefighters and emergency medical technicians navigating challenging terrains inaccessible to traditional vehicles. With features like a 70-gallon water tank, a 3-gallon foam concentrate tank, a 250-gallon per minute pump, a 75’ hose reel, and a stokes basket for transporting individuals, the UTV ensures effective firefighting and medical response in remote locations. Further enhancing safety, the UTV includes an automatic external defibrillator, oxygen, and an EMS equipment and supplies bag. This versatile UTV is poised to revolutionize firefighting and emergency medical services by reaching places standard vehicles cannot.”
The fire department shared that in addition to the UTV, the department acquired six additional self-contained breathing apparatus units, reinforcing safety protocols and allowing more firefighters to perform their duties securely.
“The Chiefs, Board of Directors, and all members express heartfelt gratitude to Assemblywoman Silitti for her unwavering support of the Fire and Emergency Medical Services,” said the Port Washington Fire Department.
—Information gathered by Julie Prisco
