Little Compton to Receive New Rescue Boat

The Little Compton Volunteer Fire Association purchased a new rescue boat and offered to lease it to the town, according to Town Council President Robert Mushen. The Town Council accepted the donation earlier this month.

"I think we're very fortunate to have someone come along and say, 'here's a rescue boat,'" Mushen said in a recent interview, noting the deal with the volunteers is similar to when it provided the town with funds to .

Mushen said the details are still being determined, and there is motivation to get the boat out of the marine yard where it currently sits. Depending on the conditions of the lease, Mushen said it can be stored at the on Simmons Road, and they need to solidify the condition on where it will be moored.

"It's going to save a lot of time in response," said Fire Chief Richard Petrin, noting they want to have it in service at Sakonnet Point.

Currently, the department has Marine 1 hooked up at the station and they have to drive it down to the launch area. It was used last year to rescue a local man near Sakonnet Point Lighthouse.