Columbia County Adds Seven Divers to Public Safety Team
These specialists watch over 15 miles of the Savannah River, Clarks Hill Lake, and thousands of smaller bodies of water.
Columbia County's rescue dive unit just added seven skilled divers, pushing their numbers past 40. These specialists watch over 15 miles of the Savannah River, Clarks Hill Lake, and thousands of smaller bodies of water scattered across the region.
"That's my goal is to get this dive team number one in the state," said Chief Danny Kuhlmann to WRDW.
The unit tackles critical underwater missions in local waters. "Diving is nothing recreational whatsoever, it's basically recovery of victims, items that were maybe tossed," said Ribboe McMillian, who just joined the team.
As summer draws near, water risks remain a critical concern. Officials stress the importance of flotation devices, which are mandated by state law to be worn by children while boating.
Each member passed intense underwater tests to earn their spot. Training covered search methods, rescue techniques, and crucial safety protocols.
