In response to a sharp increase in water-related emergencies last year, Bulloch County Public Safety and the Emergency Management Agency (EMA) have acquired a new water rescue boat to bolster their emergency response capabilities. The decision comes after the county experienced significant flooding and multiple water rescues during Tropical Storm Debby and the unnamed storm on November 6-7, 2023.
Last year’s storms caused unprecedented flooding across Bulloch County, with creeks, branches, ponds, lakes, and the Ogeechee River overflowing their banks. These events led to numerous emergency situations, highlighting the need for specialized equipment to handle such crises.
“Our primary mission is to safeguard our community,” said Corey Kemp, Bulloch County EMA Director. “By enhancing our rescue resources, we are better positioned to save lives and provide timely assistance during emergencies. This new boat will significantly reduce our rescue times, ensuring a more acceptable response when every second counts.”
The new rescue boat is equipped with essential tools and advanced technology, enabling first responders to perform rescues in a variety of challenging water conditions. It will not only serve rural areas of Bulloch County but will also be available for rescue calls within the city of Statesboro and surrounding counties.
To ensure the team is fully prepared to operate the new equipment, the Bulloch County Fire Department has partnered with the City of Perry Fire & Emergency Services. Perry’s team will provide specialized training in Boat Operations and Surface Water Rescue, equipping local responders with the skills needed to handle complex water emergencies.
“This investment in our emergency response capabilities reflects our commitment to protecting our residents and neighbors,” Ben Tapley, Bulloch County FIre Chief added. “We are grateful for the partnership with Perry Fire & Emergency Services and their support in training our team.”
The addition of the water rescue boat marks a significant step forward in Bulloch County’s ability to respond to natural disasters and other water-related emergencies. As the region continues to face the challenges of extreme weather, this new resource ensures that first responders are better prepared to save lives and keep the community safe.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about emergency preparedness and safety measures, particularly during severe weather events. For more information, follow Bulloch County Public Safety or the EMA.
