Switzerland Co. EMA receives more water rescue equipment

(VEVAY, Ind.) - The Switzerland County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has bolstered its water rescue capabilities with the purchase of additional equipment.

The agency has acquired life jackets, helmets and other rescue gear after receiving a $4,000 grant from Duke Energy. 

EMA Director Tom Moore says expanding the county’s water rescue capabilities is of utmost importance to him. 

“During our last flooding event, we had a total of 10 water rescues. So, there is a dire need for this service,” he said. 

His goal is to have each Switzerland County fire department involved in water rescue and recovery operations. 

“We still have a long way to go with more equipment needing to be purchased. With the expansion of this water rescue team, we will need more lifejackets, dry suits and other equipment to be added for the additional personnel that will be getting involved,” he said.

The Posey Township Fire Department recently purchased a boat, which means there are now boats at each end of the county. 

Moore hopes to earn another grant to add recue-related equipment to the new boat.