NEWS RELEASE

HRM Supports TSB Report Findings on Fireboat

(Wednesday, November 18/09) - The Transportation and Safety Board of Canada has completed its marine investigation report on the fire and rescue vessel which capsized during performance trials in September, 2008.

“As stated by the TSB, it was Fire Services’ expectation that, upon completion of the performance testing trials, the vessel would prove to be stable and safe to operate within the given environmental conditions,” said Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency Services Chief Bill Mosher. “We are disappointed that this was not the case and we are very grateful that the incident didn’t result in a more serious situation.”

The vessel was undergoing performance trials and training exercises conducted by HRM Fire & Emergency Services personnel. All eight people on board were taken to hospital for observation but there were no serious injuries.
Among the crew were five Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency fire fighter personnel, a representative from the manufacturer, a representative from the local supplier and one other individual.
The incident aboard the 28-foot vessel occurred in calm harbour water conditions near the Coast Guard docks. The training and testing exercises were being carried out as part of the HRM tender agreement, prior to final purchase and delivery of the vessel.

The purchase and sale agreement of the boat was not completed and the money remains in reserve with no immediate plans to purchase a firefighting vessel.

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Contact:

Mike LeRue, Divisional Chief
Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency Services
490-6574