Ocean rescues on the rise, volunteers needed

As more vacationers and locals head to the beach to start their Fourth of July festivities a local firehouse is calling on their volunteers for help.

But do they have enough man power to keep us all safe?

Ocean rescues are on the rise. So far this summer the Federal Point Firehouse has made 35 water rescues.

Last year 40 water rescues were made during the entire summer.

Due to the increase in the number of ocean rescues, this local fire house depends on its volunteers. There are 24 of them, who travel from land to sea.

Volunteer firefighter Capt. Terry Johnson said, “I feel good doing what I do. I’m comfortable doing it. It feels good to help people.”

As more people call for their help, especially during the holidays manpower is their biggest need.

Amphibious fire fighters patrol the area, not for money or recognition but to care for the community.

Federal Point Fire Chief Bill Medcalf said, “Trying to identify and possibly head off a dangerous situation before it becomes a problem.”

Chief Medcalf has been volunteering for the past 12 years. For him it’s a way of life.

“It allows us to go home and sleep soundly at night and that we’re doing everything we can to keep the public save,” Chief Medcalf said.

Here are some tips they recommend: Never swim alone; children under nine should wear life vest when near the water.

The Federal Point Firehouse is asking for the public’s help. It needs more volunteers and is always accepting applications.