VIDEO: The Yuma Fire Department is set to receive nearly $500,000 through a state grant program to enhance its emergency response efforts along the Colorado River. The funding, part of the State Lake Improvement Fund, will go toward purchasing a new rescue boat, two jet skis and other life-saving equipment to support water rescues and fire suppression operations. The department currently responds to emergencies along the Colorado River. With frequent activity in the area during the summer months, fire officials say response capability is more important than ever.
David Padilla with the Yuma Fire Department said the river is a great place for recreation, but it can quickly become dangerous if people are not cautious. โOne thing that people forget is that the water is moving, itโs relentless. Itโs a river. It doesnโt stop,โ said Padilla. He said that when calls come in and the department lacks the right equipment, it can delay critical response times. To improve safety along the river, Yuma Fire has partnered with the Greater Yuma Water Safety Alliance to fund additional resources.
The partnership has already supported the installation of mile markers and emergency signage, which help dispatchers and crews locate individuals in distress faster. โWe have been able to improve signage down at the river. Now, if someone calls 911, we have some ability to locate where they are, and weโre not searching,โ Padilla said. He said the new state-funded equipment will allow responders to search multiple areas at once and access hard-to-reach places along the river. In addition to water rescues, the new boat will help fight brush fires along the lower Colorado River.
