The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary rescue boat that serves lower Lake Huron and the upper St. Clair River is now in service, about a month ahead of schedule.
The PointSAR vessel was able to launch for the season due to unseasonably warm temperatures and additional cold weather gear for the crew.
Unit Leader Greg Grimes said up until now they didn't have the proper immersion suits and floatation suits that allowed for exposure to the cold water.
CCGA Vessel PointSAR (Photo courtesy of Greg Grimes)
"I think a lot of people forget that at this time of year, that water is still very cold," said Grimes. "Being thrown into that water without proper protection will take your breath away, your muscles will cramp up very quickly and it's hard to sustain yourself in the water. This layer of protection allows us to go out with confidence for the crew's safety despite the cold water."
Grimes said the 15-member crew is available 24/7 to help authorities with any issues that may arise.
"We respond to disabled vessels, persons in the water, missing persons, unidentified objects in the water, and environmental spills," said Grimes. "Our crewmembers are trained up in all aspects of what a Coast Guard unit would respond to."
Grimes said they use the Zodiac Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB).
"They're designed to handle rough waters, both with the floatation devices and with the quick draining," he said. "The boat has a self-righting system. So, if it tips over out in the water, a giant bladder inflates and the boat will tip up right so the crew can get back onto the boat."
Thanks to the ongoing support of the Alix Foundation, the boat has been equipped with updated electronics and new outboard motors over the past few years.
He said they're looking forward to helping with the Bluewater Anglers' Salmon Derby on April 29.
A member of PointSAR Auxiliary team (Photo courtesy of Greg Grimes)
Other dates circled on the calendar include the Mackinac sailboat races, the off-shore speed boat races and the annual float down.
He said they're still recruiting new members to the team.
Those interested can go to www.PointSAR.ca for more information.
