Most Portland, Maine Fireboat Trips for Non-emergencies

An investigation has found that more than two-thirds of the trips made last year by the Portland Fire Department’s three boats were for non-emergency purposes.

The Portland Press Herald reviewed city records following an incident earlier this month in which the $3.2 million City of Portland IV fireboat sustained $38,000 in damage when it hit an underwater object. Two firefighters were suspended following the incident. The trip was described as a training exercise, but 12 civilians were on board at the time.

Records for 2010 show 547 “service runs” to ferry city employees or make other non-urgent trips transporting civilians, and 239 emergency runs for medical or fire calls.

Fire Chief Fred LaMontagne has ordered a review of policies following the Oct. 15 accident.