Underwater Cameras for Search & Rescue

[stone35]

Our department has been pondering whether or not an investment in one of these underwater search and rescue cameras would be justifiable. The cost is approximately $500, with additional charges for extra batteries.

If you know of any department that has used, owns, or has had an experience with these underwater cameras please respond.



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Stone35

[NCRSQ751]

I'd suggest you do it, but get something that is versatile.

We use a Snake Eye Camera. We originally got it for collapse since it's small and flexible. It has cable extensions that can be used on it, I believe we have a 25 foot one at the moment but you can get up to a 100 foot one.

It can be attached to a pole, let flow free or also has a ring attachment that a diver can wear on their finger.

This takes a lot of practice and training to get right, but it provides a clear picture since it lights up. All our water around here is black water, so if we can see with it, anyone can!

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Susan Bednar
Forsyth Rescue Squad (Captain)
NCTF-1
Griffith Volunteer FD

[Capt Grabowski PAPD,NAPD]

Yes, You Need A Video System

As a vetteran police/public sd I can
say for fact that video is required equipment
for any dive team. In the past I have used
video to search polluted/hazmat water as
well as overhead invironments that I would
not even consider sending in one of my divers.
I use helmet mounted, pole mounted, drop,robotic and vessel towed torpeedo cams.
Remember video is cheep compared to risk.
These systems have also allowed me to let
none diving professionals such as the coronor and homicide detectives to work
through my hands on scene. I have also backed my decisions as a underwater investigator with video tapes in questionable cases, what looks like a crime
underwater does not always look like a crime on the surface and vise versa.
There are many video systems on the market
that are quite good. Do to a small budget
all of the systems We use I design and make
this is how we afford them. For more info
email me or catch me at Professional Association Of Police Divers a msn community.