Alton, N.H. — September 25 — Responders from the Alton Fire Department faced dense fog with visibility of only about 10 feet as they launched from the bay for a medical emergency on Rattlesnake Island this past weekend. The extreme conditions required operators to rely on their instruments and training in blind navigation to safely reach the scene.

Officials said the incident underscores the value of ongoing training for boat operators, who must demonstrate competence in navigating low-visibility conditions before being cleared for duty. Despite reduced speeds on the water, the patient was assessed and packaged for transport, and by the time crews were ready to return, the fog had lifted, allowing a smooth trip back to shore.