06/07/2019- A local industry is stepping up to help the Marinette Fire Department fund some badly needed equipment, and they’re challenging others to do the same. Johnson Controls has pledged to give all their profits from their September ANSUL Fire School to the fire department for the purchase of a new rescue airboat. Senior Manager of Marketing Communications Jim Cox says companies wanting to assist in the effort are encouraged to make a $5000 donation of their own this month and will in-turn receive free enrollment to the Fire School.
The fire department’s existing airboat is nearing the end of its useful life, meaning it may not be reliable when it’s needed most. For Scott Wahl with JCI, this mission is a personal one. His son needed rescuing off the ice this past winter and Fire Department personnel told Wahl without the assistance of the air boat, the outcome could have been much worse.
Fire Chief Jay Heckel says if the department is able to raise $155-thousand by this fall, they can purchase a refurbished boat. A new model will cost them closer to $230-thousand.