At a recent Lincoln County Fire Chiefs meeting, the extended construction project at the Southport Bridge was discussed. Anticipating alternating one-way traffic and associated delays, patient transport was contemplated by the group. Given that Southport Fire has several EMTs among their ranks, scenarios were envisioned where Southport Fire could contribute to EMS response, thereby mitigating delays caused by the construction project. At that time, the Southport Fire Department did not own a "stokes basket," which is essentially a stretcher without wheels.

Boothbay Chief Pratt inquired with the Rotary Club of Boothbay Harbor, which has a history of supporting local emergency services, to see if they had an interest in supporting this cause. Recognizing that this equipment would be useful for shoreline rescues, motor vehicle accidents, and many other emergencies, in addition to this immediate need, club president Tory Paxson and the Rotary Club's board enthusiastically agreed to grant the funds, which were presented to Assistant Chief Adam Harkins last week.