TIDNISH BRIDGE, N.S. — The Tidnish Bridge Fire Department is hosting a dance at the community centre on Feb. 8 to help raise money to upgrade its rescue boat.
Chief Andy Fullerton said the department’s Zodiac boat needs two new engines at a cost of $27,600.
"Without the help from our community and surrounding areas, as well as people and businesses like yours, this purchase is simply not realistic for our small station,” Fullerton said. “The boat’s current engines are 21 years old and are no longer reliable in an emergency situation.”
He said the new engines would be better equipped for emergency rescues in the community and surrounding areas.
Ensuring the rescue boat has new engines would be beneficial to the entire area including Tidnish, Amherst Shore, Seagrove, Northport, Pugwash and Port Elgin, N.B.
“In the summer months our shorelines are home to an estimated 8,000 cottage goers, swimmers, boaters, and tourists,” he said. “In the past eight years our department has averaged four rescue calls a summer.”
For public safety reasons Fullerton said the department wants to have the boat ready by this May.
“You never know when you or someone you love may need the Zodiac’s help. Let’s make sure it’s ready and waiting,” he said.
To raise funds for the new engines the department is depending on the generosity of others by making as many people aware of its current situation with the Zodiac and asking for help.
People could make a donation by contacting the department or e-transferring a donation to [email protected] .
The dance on Feb. 8 runs from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. with music by Fusion.
Tickets for the 19 and over event are $10 each and are available at the Facebook fundraising page TBFD Engine Fundraiser or call Ali Holthoff at 902-694-0930.
A tax receipt from the County of Cumberland will be issued for all donations.
