Forrest County Sheriff, Charlie Sims coordinated an effort to update the Forrest County Sheriff's Office Dive Team in the latest “Public Safety Diver” qualifications. Deputies took part in this certification class taught by Deputy Carlton Sims, no relation to Sheriff Sims.
Deputy Sims said “This is an exercise to teach these deputies skills for black water and murky water diving in lakes, rivers, ponds, etc.. This can be one of the most challenging types of diving that requires preparation and skill. All of the deputies involved are experienced divers."
This class taught techniques for recovering victims, and articles, such as weapons, or other items that would be used in law enforcement investigations.
Deputy Sims said, “When we recover items and or victims, it is necessary that we properly preserve evidence.”
The deputies will now be certified public safety divers and will be on call to assist the department and other agencies that need these specialized divers in emergency situations.
