Fire Chief Henley discusses urgent need for new rescue boat in marina safety enhancements

Fire safety took center stage at the recent Flower Mound Town Council Work Session, with Chief Henley addressing the urgent need for improved water rescue capabilities. Highlighting the challenges faced by the current fireboat, Chief Henley noted that it is not adequately equipped for the swift water and static water rescues that have become increasingly necessary in the area.

With two marinas housing around 400 boat slips, the potential for incidents such as near drownings is significant. Chief Henley candidly admitted, “I can’t even swim,” underscoring the importance of having the right equipment for the job. He explained that the existing boat is too broad and not designed for effective rescue operations, making it difficult to perform life-saving measures.

The Chief emphasized the need for a more specialized vessel that can navigate the waters around multimillion-dollar homes and efficiently assist individuals in distress. “We need a boat that can pull a person up and actively resuscitate if we need to,” he stated, pointing to the critical nature of this upgrade for community safety.

As discussions continue, the Town Council is expected to consider the implications of these needs on future budgets and public safety initiatives, ensuring that Flower Mound is prepared for any emergencies on its waterways.