Volunteer Rescue Team Seeks Jet Boat to Save Lives Faster

When three fishermen got pinned against a rock in fast-moving water last year, every second counted. Thanks to a borrowed jet boat, volunteer rescuers reached them quickly and brought everyone home safely.

But that boat isn't always available when the Swift Water Rescue Team needs it. Now, these volunteer first responders are raising funds to buy their own jet boat so they can reach people in danger without delay.

The team serves as the frontline defense for water emergencies across local rivers, responding to incidents involving fishermen, families, and tourists year-round. They face unpredictable currents, hazardous debris, and dangerous flood conditions, all while working to protect lives in situations where minutes matter most.

Despite being fully trained and ready to respond, the volunteers say they lack the equipment needed to safely and quickly access many critical rescue locations. Currently, they depend on a neighboring jurisdiction to lend them a jet boat, but that equipment isn't always suited to local river conditions and creates dangerous delays during emergencies.

"In river rescues, minutes can mean the difference between life and death," organizers wrote in their GoFundMe campaign. "Reaching victims is often the greatest challenge, especially in strong currents, shallow channels, and remote areas."

Having their own jet boat would transform their capabilities. The team could respond immediately without waiting for outside resources, navigate shallow and fast-moving waters more safely, and operate effectively during floods and high-water events.

The Ripple Effect

This isn't just about equipment. It's about ensuring that everyone who enjoys the region's beautiful waterways has a safety net they can count on.

All funds raised go directly into the Volunteer Swiftwater Fund and will be used specifically for purchasing the jet boat, not for general district expenses. This ensures every donation has a direct and measurable impact on water rescue capabilities.

The volunteers aren't paid for the risks they take or the lives they save. They're simply asking their community to help them do their jobs better and faster when someone's life hangs in the balance.

Every contribution brings them closer to ensuring that when someone needs help on the water, rescuers can reach them without delay.