Sutter County Sheriff’s Dive Team members participate in a two-day diver rescue and entanglement training hosted by the Butte County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team. The exercise focused on skills used during underwater search, recovery and rescue operations. Photo courtesy of Sutter County Sheriff’s Office

BUTTE COUNTY, CA (MPG) - Sutter County Sheriff’s Dive Team members recently joined Butte County search and rescue personnel for two days of training focused on diver rescue and underwater entanglement emergencies.

The Butte County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team hosted the training, which gave divers experience with situations they could encounter during search and recovery operations.

According to the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office, the exercises tested divers physically and mentally while focusing on skills needed when operating underwater.

“Trainings like this are incredibly valuable, as each jurisdiction presents its own unique diving environments and hazards,” the Sheriff’s Office said.

The joint exercise also allowed personnel from the two counties to practice working together before an emergency requires agencies to combine resources.

“Working alongside neighboring agencies also strengthens communication, coordination and operations, especially when time is critical and additional resources are needed,” the Sheriff’s Office said.

During the training, participants selected Sutter County Correctional Officer Michael Totten as the session’s “Hardest Working Diver.”

Pasquini’s Fine Italian Food in Live Oak donated a gift package presented to Totten in recognition of his work during the training.