Water Rescue

In 1986, the company was investigating what was missing from the emergency needs of Gamber and Carroll County. It was decided that a water rescue team was appropriate addition to the existing inventory of the emergency services provided to the community. The company approved the purchase of a Zodiac rubber boat, outboard motor, and trailer in that year. This unit would be known as Boat 13 and to be trailered behind Utility 13.

In 1988, a 1987 Chevrolet on ton step van was donated by the Auxiliary to be used as a water rescue team van. It was out fitted by company members and can accommodate the needs of the dive team.

Gamber's water rescue team responds on average to 20 or more calls a year. These calls range from subjects in swift water, drownings, stand by for possible jumpers off bridges or dams, boats in distress, vehicles in the water, and assist police with recovery of stolen items.

     Gamber's water rescue team consists of dedicated members derived from our active members that understand the need for a diverse rescue response team. The water rescue team can be broken down to three important groups:

     Land support - The land support aspect is made up of the driver of the units, as well as, the operator of the boats, the personnel that tend the lines and the communications system for the divers and assist in equipment collection. This part of the team is the backbone to all operations in or near the water.

     Swift water Team - The swiftwater team is a group of energetic individuals that are required to perform and maintain specialized training that place them in high risk water environments. The skills necessary are both demanding and rewarding to each individual and to the team as a group.

     Diver's - The diver's are the ones that handle the recovery aspect of the mission. Recovery of items such as: tools, cars, money, boats and of course sometimes a body. Our divers utilize the EXO scuba system accompanied by the use of dry suits.

        Our water rescue team is not just available to Carroll County however, we have been requested by: Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Howard County, Harford County, Frederick County, Anne Arundel County and also York County, PA. At this time, the water rescue team is solely made up of members of the Gamber & Community Fire Company. Plans in the future would include members of other local fire companies becoming involved with our team.

Any questions about the team can be directed to Bruce Bouch at fyrfytr13@aol.com

 Dive Unit 13/ Boat 13-1

 Utility 13/ Boat 13