By Richard C. Dujardin
WOONSOCKET, R.I. -- A new emergency rescue vehicle -- an inflatable boat capable of fighting the sometimes-strong currents on the Blackstone River -- was unveiled by city officials Thursday on one of the boat ramps next to the Blackstone River Bikeway.
Fire Chief Gary Lataille said the new 14-foot boat, a 2011 Mercury, represents a vast improvement over the 10-year-old inflatable boat the city has used until now. The older boat, he said, had a small motor that didn't always allow it to make its way upstream, especially when the currents were strong.
The new boat, a result of a $5,500 donation from the Navigant Credit Union, is also equipped with a sled underneath, making it capable of traversing 6-inch deep water without running aground.