New airboat hits Lake Simcoe, promising faster emergency response

This airboat will be used to respond to emergencies in shallow water.

A new airboat is gliding into Lake Simcoe this week.

Innisfil Fire and Rescue Services has taken to social media to showcase its new specialized vessel, designed to improve emergency response in shallow water, marshlands, flooded areas, and ice‑covered waterways.

“With Innisfil surrounded by shoreline, rivers, and wetlands, having the right equipment helps ensure we can reach people quickly when they need us most,” the team shared in a Thursday social media post.

Staff say additional preparation and training will take place before the airboat is officially in full service.

The team recently had the chance to take the vessel out for a test run as they began familiarizing themselves with all of its capabilities.

The airboat can help tackle ice and water rescues along with shallow water operations around the community.