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First Watch Gear and Takashina USA Support Southeast and Florida First Responders in Hurricane Recovery Efforts

By Taylor Kirshe posted 10-09-2024 10:18 AM

  
First Watch Gear and Takashina USA Support Southeast and Florida First Responders

First Watch Gear and Takashina USA Support Southeast and Florida First Responders in Hurricane Recovery Efforts 

 

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, which devastated several southeastern states, first responders in Tennessee and North Carolina faced challenging rescue operations in hazardous floodwaters. With equipment damaged and rendered unusable after prolonged exposure to contaminated waters, donations of essential gear have been critical in supporting ongoing recovery efforts. In response, Ross Johnston from First Watch Gear and Chris Sime from Takashina USA stepped forward, offering to donate vital equipment to these hard-hit areas. 

 

As Florida prepares for the expected landfall of Hurricane Milton on the state’s west coast on Oct. 9, Johnston and Sime are once again ready to assist. They have staged equipment, prepared for shipment to Florida’s first responders as part of their ongoing commitment to support recovery efforts across the region. 

 

Through a collaborative partnership between the Life Jacket Association (LJA) and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), First Watch Gear and Takashina USA are ensuring that first responders and volunteers have the tools they need to protect lives in the face of natural disasters. 

 

Equipment Donations as of Oct. 8, 2024, by First Watch Gear: 

  • North Carolina: 

    • 24-gram inflatable utility flotation vests (automatic and manual versions): Lightweight, easy-to-use vests for volunteers, officers, and rescued individuals. 

    • Public safety waders: Waterproof and breathable, designed for use in contaminated waters. 

    • Throw bags: Essential for water rescue operations. 

    • Utility MOLLE vests: Versatile vests suited for various emergency situations. 

 

  • Tennessee: 

    • FW-38PROA green inflatable utility vests (automatic version) 

    • Public safety waders 

    • Throw bags 

    • Utility MOLLE vests 

 

Equipment Donations Staged and Ready to Ship: 

  • To Florida, by First Watch Gear: 

    • 24-gram inflatable utility flotation vests (automatic and manual versions) 

    • Public safety waders 

    • Throw bags 

    • Utility MOLLE vests 

    • Micro emergency inflatable vests: Compact, reusable buoyancy devices that can be attached to throw bags, drones, or hand-delivered for victim protection. 

 

Equipment Donations Staged and Ready to Ship: 

  • To Florida by Takashina USA: 

    • 2,800 Type II life jackets: Designed for use during rescue operations to provide flotation for victims. 

 

As Hurricane Milton approaches, the collaborative efforts of these organizations will ensure that first responders in Florida are better equipped to protect and save lives. 

 

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The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) is a national nonprofit organization that works to develop public policy for recreational boating safety. NASBLA represents the boating authorities of all 50 states and U.S. territories, offering resources and training to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for over 85 million American boaters. 

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