The Lloydminster Rescue Squad is turning to the community for help getting their diving gear up to date.
The Squad, which is entirely funded by the community, has launched a GoFundMe page to try and raise $20,000 to replace diving gear, suits, dive technology and boating equipment, which is over ten years old now.
Deputy Chief Ryan LeBlanc says this is the first time they’ve tried a GoFundMe, but over the past few weeks, they’ve responded to several missions on the water, which has called attention to them needing the new equipment.
“As technology moves on, some of the older equipment is still good, it’s just it not as capable as some of the newer stuff. So we’re looking at the newest, latest and greatest SONAR that’s out, as well as some of the newer dive computers for our divers. ”
As of Wednesday morning, the Squad has raised $675 dollars through the online fundraiser. Leblanc explains that by getting this new equipment, it not only helps them have stronger tools when the rescue squad is on the job but also helps give their divers an added layer of safety.
“It lets [the dive team] be a lot more comfortable in the newer equipment, as well as with the SONAR, we’ll be able to see things a little bit better. And again, as technology moves forward, we’ll be able to improve our capabilities.”
The Rescue Squad planning to raise some more funds during the Sirens and Sapphires Gala, which Leblanc says they are planning to go ahead with in 2020. He says the planning committee will have a clearer idea of what the event will look soon, as they work out the logistics of doing an event this year.
