In an effort to better protect area residents on the water as well as on land, the Weirton Fire Department plans to upgrade its water rescue operations with new training and equipment.

Weirton City Council is set to consider a resolution today for the purchase of water rescue equipment for the fire department, with a recommendation made by the city’s Finance Committee Friday.

Fire Chief Kevin Himmelrick explained while the department has a boat, and is able to conduct some water rescues, he wants to do more.

“We had a dive team years ago,” he said. “We disbanded it because we didn’t have enough members.”

Through the allocation of up to $119,983.47, plans are to purchase new water rescue equipment, including a sonar detection system, communications equipment, hauling trailer, and relate

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