KDSN RADIO News
Denison Firefighters Sharpen Underwater Search and Rescue Skills During Dive and Drone Training
(Denison, IA) The Denison Volunteer Fire Department was hard at work Wednesday evening, conducting specialized underwater search and rescue training at the Denison Aquatic Center.
Fire Chief Cory Snowgren shared these photos and video with KDSN, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the preparation required for underwater emergencies.
During the training, department divers conducted operational checks on their cold-weather diving equipment and underwater communication systems. These systems are especially important when working in cold, murky water, where visibility can be extremely limited and communication with personnel above the surface is critical.
Meanwhile, underwater drone operators practiced using sonar technology to locate and identify submerged objects, then verifying their findings with the drone's onboard camera.
Chief Snowgren emphasized that the clear water of a swimming pool is far different from the conditions firefighters typically encounter during real emergencies. In Iowa's rivers, lakes and ponds, visibility can be reduced to almost nothing by mud, sediment and debris. That's why learning to navigate using sonar, rather than relying solely on a camera, is such an important skill.
The department's dive team is equipped to assist with specialized underwater search and recovery operations, making continued training essential for both firefighter safety and emergency preparedness.
A special thank you to Chief Snowgren and the Denison Volunteer Fire Department for sharing this look at the training that takes place long before an emergency call comes in.
