The Fox Lake Fire Protection District is proud to maintain a dedicated and highly skilled dive team that serves our community and beyond. Our team consists of 9 divers, including 5 certified ice divers and 1 swift water rescue technician. Each diver has undergone rigorous specialized training to achieve their certification. To maintain their certification, each diver must complete a minimum of 5 training dives, swim tests, and basic skills assessments annually.
Our dive team is essential for responding to numerous water-related incidents annually, including those within the Chain O’Lakes, one of the busiest inland waterway systems in the United States. This area is a major recreational destination, attracting thousands of visitors each year for boating, fishing, and other water activities. Consequently, we respond to an average of 20-30 water rescue calls each year, addressing situations ranging from boating accidents and capsized vessels to missing persons and ice rescues.
Maintaining a proficient dive team involves significant investment from the Fox Lake Fire Protection District. Each diver is equipped with specialized gear costing approximately $8,000. Certification for each diver costs about $1,200.
In 2016, we enhanced our capabilities with the delivery of a new dive/rescue boat, replacing our previous vessel that had been in service since 1974. This state-of-the-art boat is equipped with the latest technology to support search, rescue, and recovery operations. Additionally, our dive team is supported by a well-equipped dive van and a smaller John boat for areas where the larger vessel cannot operate.
Our dive team is not only responsible for the Fox Lake Fire Protection District but also provides mutual aid to neighboring fire departments in Lake and McHenry Counties, as well as Southeast Wisconsin. Our commitment to rigorous training and the latest technology ensures we are always ready to respond effectively to any water emergency.
The Fox Lake Fire Protection District is dedicated to maintaining a highly trained and well-equipped dive team, ready to protect and serve our community and those of our neighbors. Our ongoing investment in training, equipment, and technology underscores our commitment to ensuring the safety of all who enjoy the waterways in our area.
