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The Bay Area Maritime Search And Rescue (BAMSAR) was formed in 1995, in response to the threatened closure of Coast Guard Station Moriches (N.Y.). We offered our services to the Coast Guard, for their use, if the Station closed. We also offered our services to our own local communities, as well. Over the years, the organization has grown from the original five fire departments, into the diversified group we have today. With few exceptions, we currently extend along Long Island’s South Shore, from Bayport, in Islip Town, to Sag Harbor, in Southampton Town. Member agencies are all part of the Suffolk County (N.Y.) Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid Plan. Our services include: Surface and sub-surface rescue; Emergency medical services; Maritime firefighting and damage control, and limited specialized services.
Part of our mission is to advocate for better cooperation and standardized training among the water rescue teams of Suffolk County. To this end, we offer a number of training courses through agencies such as Dive Rescue International, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the United States Power Squadron and the Red Cross. Training courses include, but are not limited to: Public Safety Diver, Lifeguard, Surface Support, Ice Rescue Technician, and Boating Safety.
