Since its inception in 2011, The Marine Operations (MAROPS) Program of the Alameda Fire Department has been under constant review, scrutiny and growth to be able to provide land based water rescue from shore, as well as boat based water rescue utilizing Inflatable Rescue Boats and Rescue Swimmers. The policies have been established and reviewed to reflect current practices and are being monitored for their effectiveness.
As of this date, the Department has trained all members in “Shore Based” water rescue and currently has 25 Lifeguard Certified Rescue Swimmers. The Department has also trained 55 members as Inflatable Rescue Boat Operators to operate the 2 Inflatable Rescue Boats.
The final component of the MAROPS Program is dedicated to marina and waterfront firefighting, making necessary the acquisition of a suitable Fireboat. In August 2012, the Department was approved by the US Department of Homeland Security for a Port Security grant in the amount of $375,000.00 to purchase a Fireboat. The Alameda City Council voted in October 2012 to accept the grant and enter into a purchase agreement for a Fireboat, not to exceed $500,000 for a fully equipped Fireboat.
