With water sports on the rise, these facilities are being stretched beyond their limits. Increased use of area lakes has dramatically increased the potential for water-related accidents and drownings. The need for a well-trained and equipped underwater rescue team is apparent. The Lincoln Fire Department Dive-Rescue Team has responded to a variety of rescue and recovery incidents within our jurisdiction. Some unique incidents have included the underwater recovery of weapons used during the commission of crimes, and the recovery of other items concealed in large bodies of water.
Training is scheduled on a monthly basis.
All Dive-Rescue Scuba certifications are conducted by the Team Leader who is an Advanced Open Water Instructor through Scuba Schools International. New team members go through an intensive training program that includes five indoor pool sessions and five open water dives. The Dive-Rescue Team consists of 15 firefighters, five per shift, who are certified Scuba Divers, and a number of shore personnel who assist at the scene. Team members can operate from the shore or dive rescue boat.