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ALBANY, N.Y. -- Senator Charles Schumer has announced a new initiative that will allow the Albany Fire Department to take part in water rescues.

The department will receive its first ever rescue boat. The 30 foot fireboat will be equipped with a high powered hose and equipment for medical emergencies. It will also be able to rescue more than a dozen people.

Schumer says the new boat will help communities on both sides of the river.

"Ships from all over the world come to this port and they'll benefit from the added safety. It’s a benefit to a port to have a fire patrol boat, so many more ships may want to come, increasing jobs here in the Capital Region," Schumer said.

The fire department is hoping to have the boat by July.