BY JENN SAMSEL
Special to the Monitor
On Saturday, June 2, the Melrose Volunteer Fire Department unveiled its new life vest program. The initiative aims to enhance safety and promote water safety awareness within the community.
At a kickoff event, firefighters took the lead in demonstrating safety procedures for the vests. They carefully assisted some children in putting on brightly colored life vests, ensuring a snug fit for maximum safety.
The firefighters explained the importance of the vests and provided detailed instructions on how to use them effectively. The kids listened intently as they practiced buckling the straps and learning how to float properly.
“Today we’re putting out our Life Jacket Loaner Program Stand that we got through the Sea Tow Foundation at the Melrose Bay Park to serve individuals in our community in our waterways,” said Joshua Florence, Public Information Officer, Firefighter, EMT. “We started the program because we’ve had multiple water-related fatalities in our area and are helping with our water rescue team. We found that if we have items available for individuals to use before they even need to call us, we can help the community even more by reducing drowning risk. We plan on having more of these loaner life vests through all the water areas,” he said
Community members can visit the loaner life vest stand at Melrose Bay Park, which is primarily for the use of individuals involved in boating. Boaters can take a life vest from the stand, use it while on the water, and then return it to the stand when finished. This system allows the next person to borrow the vest.
According to Florence, “Eighty-seven percent of all drownings were from individuals who were not wearing a life vest. Something like this can significantly reduce the risk and help us all have a great, safe summer and time out on the water.”
“I fully support the program and the work that has been put into this program, and hope it benefits the community in saving lives,” said Chief Kevin Mobley.
The life vests will be available from March to September during boating season.
