The Department of Public Safety will host a special Training and Certification program for the newly acquired 19′ Panther Airboat. Smithtown Public Safety Officers and members of area fire departments have been invited to participate in the training/certification, provided by the U.S. Department of the Interior.
“The safety of the public and our first responders is paramount to the Town of Smithtown. This Airboat will allow the Fire Department and our Public Safety officers to safely reach distressed civilians in an effective and timely manner.” – Chief John Valentine
This specialty rescue vessel will be used for serious rescue missions in the Smithtown Bay and Nissequogue River when conditions like a low tide can become difficult to navigate. The Panther Airboat can traverse through swamp and wetlands, grasses, and even dry ground.
“While this vessel will not be utilized for routine patrol, the Panther Airboat will be launched in only the most serious cases of rescue in areas of the Nissequogue River and Smithtown Bay not accessible by other marine craft.” – Deputy Chief Kevin McPadden
Training and Certification for Smithtown Department of Public Safety staff and members of area Fire Departments will operate from June 12th – 14th. The Nesconset Fire Department will host the classroom instruction. On site training will be held at the Long Beach Marina.