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Fundraiser in Wetaskiwin for Underwater Search Team

Baker Funeral Chapel to host fundraiser BBQ and silent auction Oct. 18
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Underwater Search Team training ice recoveries in 2021 at Pigeon Lake (Shaela Dansereau/ Pipestone Flyer)

Wetaskiwin’s Baker Funeral Chapel is hosting a fundraiser for the Underwater Search Team, previously known as Central Alberta Rescue Diving Society, on Tuesday, Oct. 18.

The Underwater Search Team (UST) is Alberta’s specialist volunteer dive team that works in evidence and body recovery. The team is in dire need of funding as the province unfortunately does not have a paid recovery team.

Each diver with UST personally fund their own training and selflessly volunteer their equipment and time around Alberta where the need arises. It costs over $20,000 to train and outfit a diver on the UST.

Last year the team was fortunate enough to receive a retired fire department rescue truck from the City of Wetaskiwin and County of Wetaskiwin, however the truck is in need of an engine replacement. The estimated cost to repair the unit is $35,000 and is out of reach for the volunteers.

This truck is crucial for the UST as they use it to travel in, provide a space for their gear, a place to change and to warm up and rest between dives.

READ MORE: Wetaskiwin RCMP, Fire, Fish and Wildlife and Alberta rescue divers train for water search and rescues

READ MORE: Wetaskiwin County emergency responders train ice rescues

Baker Funeral Chapel is hosting a BBQ and silent auction on Oct. 18, from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to try to raise funds for the UST. As a volunteer-based organization all donations are tax deductible with tax receipts available.

In addition to their recoveries, the UST has previously trained with the County of Wetaskiwin fire and emergency services units in coordinated water search and rescues.



shaela.dansereau@pipestoneflyer.ca

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