Guilford County Sheriff's Office Underwater Recovery Team Prepares for Winter Weather

The Guilford County Sheriff's Office Underwater Recovery Team has been readying diving gear and personnel as winter weather brings frozen ponds and lakes, with officers warning residents that ice can be thinner than it looks at popular spots such as High Point Lake. First Lieutenant David W. Cook emphasized the real danger of winter water incidents and recalled past responses that ended in tragedy.

"I remember two such incidents that we were directly involved in. Plus last year we recovered somebody that drove a car into a pond and unfortunately drowned," Cook said, underscoring the stakes behind the team's preparations. The office is using the lull before the next cold snap to check equipment and reinforce training so crews can respond quickly to rescues and recoveries.

Cook urged practical, immediate safety steps for anyone near frozen water. "If you fall in, put your arms out and try to crawl back in," he said. For bystanders, Cook advised restraint and remote assistance: "If you’re with somebody and they fall in and they cannot get out. Don’t go in after them. Call 911 and get an object such as a rope. Or anything long that can reach out and try to drag them back in." Parents received specific instructions as well: "You know your child better than anybody else. If they’re inside, make sure you lock the top locks so they can’t unlock the door. But then, do not let them close to the water. If you’re going to be at a park or someone near the water, even if you’re sledding and it’s near water, put on a life vest or a flotation device."

The Underwater Recovery Team's responsibilities include search and rescue in aquatic environments and the search, recovery and preservation of criminal evidence, including cadavers, weapons and vehicles. The county notes that "the Team utilizes specialized equipment, training and personnel that separate it from standard recreational diving." Team members must hold PADI certification, and "training is conducted on a monthly basis that covers basic skills, search/recovery techniques and emergency drills."

The county's broader emergency capability was also highlighted. The Sheriff's Emergency Response Team, which is staffed by 36 Guilford County employees, has been preparing to respond to chemical, biological, nuclear, radioactive and explosives incidents and supports tactical operations across the county. Underwater Recovery Team members and ERT personnel maintain regular duties and remain on a 24/7 call out basis.

Guilford County also offers Project Lifesaver, a radio location system to aid first responders in finding lost individuals, such as children or people with mental impairments. As winter conditions persist, Cook's message is clear: take simple precautions, keep a safe distance from frozen water, use flotation devices when appropriate, and call 911 rather than attempting a risky rescue. The county's trained divers and emergency teams stand ready, but residents' vigilance can prevent the need for their most difficult missions.