The Sentinel is a public safety boat that is jointly owned by the Fire/Law Enforcement/EMS Departments and has been in the news often lately,  escorting the new Samish  ferry and assisting with grass fires.

She is 38-feet long and capable of carrying 8,000 pounds of gear and people.

She can pump 1,500 gallons of water a minute and be used as a water supply for fighting wildland fires (as on Goose Island) and shore front fires. She is designed for beaching.

Her drop bow makes it easier to load equipment and EMS patients.

The Sentinel has twin 330 HP engines and is capable of doing 30 knots.

On Sundays you are apt to get a glimpse of the Sentinel as she plys the waters and beaches of our islands searching of ideal landing spots.

In case an emergency arises on one of the main islands or on a smaller island in San Juan County, the Sentinel must be able to get there in the quickest, most efficient way possible.