GBPD Dive Team Completes Swiftwater Rescue Training

GREEN BAY, Wis (WGBW) – In an area full of bays, rivers, lakes, locks and other waterways, the Green Bay Police Department (GBPD) Dive Team prepares for high-risk water emergencies. The team recently completed an intensive, five-day Swiftwater Rescue Training Course to enhance their operational readiness those emergencies and rescues require.

The training, conducted from May 5 to May 9, by certified swiftwater rescue instructors, provided specialized instruction in victim rescue, recovery, self-rescue, rope systems, and coordinated response in fast-moving water conditions. 

The course featured real-world simulations in dynamic aquatic environments, giving team members hands-on experience with the challenges of swiftwater rescue operations.

“This kind of training ensures our personnel are well-prepared to respond quickly and safely. With this certification, the Green Bay Police Department Dive Team is better equipped to protect lives during floods, river rescues, and other swiftwater emergencies,” said Sgt. Krueger, Green Bay Police Department in a press release. “The completion of this course is part of the team’s commitment to professional excellence and community safety. As severe weather events and flooding become more common, this training ensures the team is ready to respond.”

The GBPD Dive Team is composed of certified public safety divers. The team is trained in underwater search and recovery, evidence recovery, body recovery, vehicle extrication, and swiftwater rescue operations. Team members undergo rigorous ongoing training in advanced diving techniques, sonar operations, underwater communications, and cold-water diving to ensure they are prepared for the most challenging conditions.

The team operates with specialized equipment, including dry suits, full-face masks, underwater communication systems, sonar imaging, and surface support systems. These resources allow them to safely and effectively conduct search and recovery operations in low-visibility and hazardous conditions, day or night.

The GBPD Dive Team is available for deployment across the region, county, state, and supports mutual aid requests from neighboring jurisdictions. Their work is essential not only in emergency response, but also in public education and water safety outreach.