BOISE COUNTY, Idaho — Emergency responders are seeking community support for a dedicated dive team to enhance response times during water-related emergencies.
On March 7, a tragic incident along Arrowrock Road resulted in the deaths of a father and child after their vehicle rolled into the water. Two other family members sustained minor injuries, according to East Boise County EMS.
The lack of a local dive team has previously complicated rescue efforts, as crews currently depend on outside teams. These specialized responders are highly trained, but travel time can hinder rescuing victims quickly when every second counts.
The Boise County waterways, including the Payette River and Arrowrock Reservoir, are frequently visited but can pose significant dangers, leading to more water emergencies than many recognize. Local authorities are working to establish a public safety dive team, requiring funding for essential equipment, training, and certification.
The Boise County Sheriff's Office is advocating for community contributions to assist in this critical fundraising initiative. As of this publication, a GoFundMe campaign has raised approximately $2,000 of its $50,000 goal. Community members are encouraged to support the effort to enhance local emergency response capabilities.