Public safety divers can be individuals working in law enforcement. The training and dive locations of public safety divers are different from recreational divers. They also have special equipment and specific dates. You will be responsible to protect the environment, lives and property of all those you care for. Public safety divers are also well-equipped to tackle the unique challenges that law enforcement brings and the many tasks they require.
Training requirements
There are many training requirements for public safety divers. The first phase of this course is knowledge development in the classroom. The students will learn different techniques to solve missions and conduct searches. Students will also be familiarized with the equipment needed for such missions. The second phase involves multiple dives where students can practice their search and recovery skills in controlled environments. Public safety divers that want to work in dangerous or contaminated waters will benefit from these courses.
ERDI is the simplest of all public safety diver training programs. It is approved by NFPA (STATE) and OSHA. The next course is the ERDI Level II course, which covers advanced techniques for emergency response diving, including the use of dry suits and full face masks. After completion of the training, the ERDI card is issued. An ERDI instructor certified in your area of expertise will be able certify you.
Role of public safety divers within law enforcement
The role of public safety divers in law enforcement is not to be underestimated. They are often undercover officers and may encounter suspects or criminals in the ocean. While these professionals play a vital role, they should not belittle the police officers and investigators. Both of these roles are quite different. Effective law enforcement operations are dependent on both the divers and the investigators.
Sometimes, LEOs deploy dive teams to assist with crimes in water. But in many cases, they also respond to incidents that occur on the land. The divers will typically be deployed in patrol vehicles or small boats, and change into scuba gear once they arrive on the water's edge. LEOs (low-level officers) and investigators communicate over radio frequencies using spoken codes. These codes can be defeated underwater. So, divers are likely to learn American Sign Language (ASL) in order communicate with investigators.
Gear required
Public safety divers can choose from a range of safety equipment. Some gear can be provided by the agency and others must purchase their own. In order to make zero visibility environments more manageable and easier to maintain, it is ideal that all divers are properly equipped. A full-face mask is a must-have piece of gear. Public safety divers don't dive in contaminated water. It is equally important to have high-quality gear.
PSD courses combine elements from several diving specialties. These may include advanced dives, rescue dives, and master divers. To aid in rescue and recovery operations, divers may be required to learn technical skills and use nitrox. An additional requirement for PSD divers may be to be trained in another type of diving or in a special environment. These divers may be called on to perform rescue and search missions in conditions that a sport diver would not encounter.