The Lethbridge Fire Department is making a splash at William Pearce Park in Riverstone as 23 firefighters take part in a three-day dive training certification course.
The specialty training, which started Monday, is only offered every three years to local water rescue teams who take part in recovery operations.
Crews learn a number of skills to help with search and rescue operations, as well as evidence retrieval for law enforcement agencies.
The instructors teach the course around the world, and the Lethbridge department specifically has a stellar record when it comes to successful dives.
Riley Mclaren is new to the dive team and said the specialty training was a great experience.
“One of the things I was looking forward to the most is just adding another dynamic to the job,” Mclaren said.
“We are lucky enough here to be firefighters and paramedics, and I’m happy now to be on the water rescue team and add that different facet to things we already do.”
READ MORE: Search and water rescue team recover body from Henderson lake
The training will continue Wednesday with more diving in Henderson Lake.
Zaferes also had tips for the general public when it comes to water rescue, including that it is not a good idea to go in the water after someone if you are not a trained lifeguard as it could lead to another rescue mission.
Other tips included marking the bank with two items to identify where a person went in the water, and designating a “water person” when at the river or lake and identifying them by a card worn around the neck. She suggested switching that person out every 15 minutes.
For more information on water rescue and a printable version of the watch card, you can click here.
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