The Cass County Sheriff’s Office has approved the creation of the Underwater Search and Rescue Team (USAR), which will enhance community safety.
The idea came after years of seeing a need for underwater search, rescue and evidence recovery within the county.
In a collaborative effort, USAR will bring in members from several local agencies. Fire and EMS partners will join deputies from the sheriff’s office. Some members will already have experience in rescue and recovery situations. This gives them an advantage as they undergo instructor certification so they can teach new members. Local law enforcement officers will also join the team, with a concentrated focus on evidence recovery and investigations.
“Creating an underwater search and rescue team is one of those situations where collaboration between the Cass County Sheriff’s Office and local fire departments isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. Each agency brings different strengths, and without collaboration, there can be gaps in response, effectiveness and safety concerns which can lead to serious problems,” said Captain/Paramedic Eric Perilla of the South Metropolitan Fire Protection District.
Perilla is a SSI Master Instructor and Rescue Diver who will be an integral part of the USAR team.
Preparing for dive team operations is a rigorous process. Members will train monthly, focusing on several high-stakes skills. These full-scale exercises are designed to validate their abilities and ensure the team is mission-ready for any environment.
During both training and callouts, they will use advanced technology to maintain constant communication.
The Cass County Commission played an integral role in the creation of the USAR team.
“The Cass County Commission remains committed to quality public safety in Cass County and we support our public safety officials' collaborative efforts to provide these essential services,” said Cass County Presiding Commissioner Bob Huston.
The top priority for this team is to be prepared when they are called upon by the community.
“Collaborating with our Public Safety partners to provide critical life safety services to the citizens of Cass County is core to our mission of Keeping Cass County Safe. Having the staff, training and equipment is essential to that mission, and I am grateful for the support we have from our elected officials and Public Safety Leaders,” said Cass County Sheriff Jeff Weber.
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