Underwater Rescue and Recovery Training
This video was originally aired on
‘A’ British Columbia on June 24th, 2009

When tragedy strikes in waters near your community, the RCMP's Underwater Recovery Team spring into action.  This team of police officers are highly trained in the task of underwater search and recovery.  Their tasks can vary from a lengthy, methodical search for a missing person believed to  have entered the water, to the difficult task of locating and recovering the remains of a drowning victim.  Dive Team Members often work under extremely challenging and dangerous conditions, in an attempt to bring final dignity to a victim, and closure to their families.

Unfortunately, during the summer months, Team Members are called out with more frequency.  "As people flock to beaches and waterways this summer, some will bring alcohol and a false sense of courage along with them", states Cpl. Darren Lagan of the Vancouver Island RCMP.  "We remind everyone to be safe and smart around lakes, rivers and the ocean.  Our divers see the permanent results of a single bad choice, far too often."

We invite you to watch this 'A' British Columbia Story, which originally aired on June 24th, 2009. 'A' British Columbia reporter Andrew Johnson joined the RCMP Underwater Recovery Team and our search and rescue partners from the Greater Victoria area, during a joint training exercise last month.  While the messages you will hear are directed to users of Thetis Lake, they are the same for every waterway across British Columbia. 

Our 'thanks' to 'A' British Columbia for their continuing support of public safety across Vancouver Island.

Protect yourself and your family:

• Stay safe this summer - Canadian Red Cross Water Safety Tips - click here
• Boating Safety Information - click here

Further media inquiries related to this release, should be directed to Cpl. Darren Lagan at 250-213-5944