The Port Washington
Fire Department Dive Team was established in 1982. The Dive Team is
comprised of current and former firefighters as well as EMS personnel. As
with the Fire Department, the equipment, methodology, and training has
changed since its inception, but one very important part of this equation
remains unchanged--ITS MEMBERSHIP. In the early years, members provided
their own personal gear. Through their pride, courage, honor, and
community involvement the members of the Port Washington Fire Department
Dive Team continue to provide waterside safety to the citizens and
tourists of Port Washington.
There are 2 components to the dive team –
Surface Support and Divers.
Surface Support personnel are the backbone of the dive team
– these are the people who help divers gear up, review checklists,
communication signals, contingency plans, and control the divers search
patterns from the surface. Without this key component, the dive team
would be much less effective.
The divers execute the search, usually in low visibility
conditions. Divers begin by obtaining an Open Water certification through
one of several certifying agencies. Further diver education is available
and encouraged to enhance the individual's skill level. Courses include,
Advanced Open Water, Ice Diver, Rescue Dive, Search & Recovery Diver, and
Dive Rescue 1. In addition, the U. S. Coast Guard provides Surface Ice
Rescue training to the entire Fire Department (usually in January).
Being a member of the Port Washington Fire Department Dive
Team should be considered more than a part-time job, although all members
are paid for dive calls and practices. It is also a commitment to serving
the City of Port Washington and the surrounding communities.
