Boat Team

The township of Little Falls is bordered by approximately 2 miles of the Passaic River.  During floods, this river rises at an unbelievable rate.  Because of this fact, many residents who live on the river banks are subject to massive flash floods and are not able to evacuate fast enough.  During hurricane Floyd in 1999, we became aware of other areas in town that are susceptible to heavy flooding during strong storms.  Areas that would have never been considered a flood zone, were found to be under 5-7 feet of water.  The boat team and other members of the fire department responded to several areas of town and assisted stranded residents to dry ground.  The boat team also assists the police during investigations when there is the possibility that a person may have entered the river.  The boat team is equipped with tools to drag the river when searching for a person who may have disappeared.  Those interested in joining the boat team must complete courses which teach you methods of swift water rescue and water safety.