Northern Lakes Fire forms dive rescue team

The Northern Lakes Fire Protection District has formed a certified dive rescue team under the guidance of the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team. 

Northern Lakes fire commissioners and Kootenai County commissioners entered into an agreement to implement this program. 

“With this development, residents can have increased confidence in their safety, knowing that well-trained certified divers are ready to respond promptly to water emergencies,” said a news release. 

Northern Lakes has four firefighter divers joining the KCSO dive team and the goal is to have six divers in total, allowing for two divers per shift, providing 24/7 coverage. 

All Northern Lakes firefighters on the dive team have medical training, providing care from the level of emergency medical technician to paramedic. 

“The divers are committed to maintaining their skills at the highest level,” the release said. “They are certified from the open water level all the way up to rescue diver, one of the highest qualifications available.”

Each diver is required to train for a minimum of 80 hours per year, with Northern Lakes divers training for 10 hours every month.

This initiative was advanced with a donation of $7,200 from Northwest Specialty Hospital. 

“This donation will equip one diver fully for rescue responses, a testament to the community's commitment towards public safety,” the news release said. “The KCSO Dive Team is currently lending equipment to our firefighter members. Northern Lakes Fire Protection District extends its sincere gratitude to Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office and Northwest Specialty Hospital for their support.”

Donations are welcome and needed for future growth. To support the Northern Lakes Fire District Dive Team initiative, contact Justin Brodin at [email protected].