The annual Oakdale Plunge helps to raise funds for two important groups in Hudson – the Hudson Youth Center and the Hudson Fire Department Water Rescue and Dive Team.
In 2002 the Hudson Fire Department (HFD) took the first steps to increase its capability for water rescue when a child drowned in the Hudson River. In that tragic incident, it took over an hour to get a boat equipped with sonar and 90 minutes for a diver to arrive on the scene. The victim was found in 30 feet of water over two hours after the initial dispatch – with no hope for survival – in the exact spot where he was last seen. Rescue workers at the scene pledged to never allow such a long response time again. The HFD acknowledged its water rescue capabilities were inadequate and the Water Rescue Team was formed.
To maintain the latest standards in the field of water rescue, the team has undertaken its own fundraising. The team holds an annual Chicken BBQ and created the annual Oakdale Plunge to help supplement expenses. These donations have been used to provide advanced training, purchase an underwater communications system, and replace aging safety equipment.
For more information on the Oakdale Plunge, and how you can be a part or make a donation, please click HERE.
