(Above) The Victor L. Shlaeger, currently Chicago’s only fireboat, was docked in front of Marina City on Thursday afternoon. Built in 1949, the 92-foot vessel can pump more than 14,000 gallons of water per minute. In the winter it can break ice eight to 12 inches thick.

The Chicago Fire Department is acquiring a new fireboat to replace the Shlaeger. Hike Metal Products will begin construction next year and deliver the new fireboat in 2011. (Click on image to view larger version.)

(Below) Closer view of the bow of the Victor L. Shlaeger.