Stratford, CT— October 14: In order to better prepare for water-related emergencies, the Stratford Fire Department upgraded its marine rescue apparatus. After examining the current life-safety vests, officials decided that new ones were required and placed orders for each apparatus's riding positions. Inflatable rescue tubes and life jackets have also been installed in staff vehicles to guarantee that the first person to arrive at a water emergency is ready to respond.

Since they give victims and rescuers safety, visibility, and buoyancy, personal flotation devices (PFDs) continue to be an essential component of water rescue operations. The initiative, which guarantees Stratford's firefighters have the right equipment for an efficient and secure marine response, is funded in part by the department thanks to strong community and municipal support.