RAID - Public Safety Diver (PSD)
RAID Public Safety Diver (PSD) Course
The RAID Public Safety Diver (PSD) course is an entry-level specialty program designed for experienced divers interested in public safety diving operations. Often referred to as “badged diving,” it prepares participants—volunteers or professionals in law enforcement, fire departments, or security teams—for underwater tasks including search, rescue, recovery, evidence collection, and site assessments in challenging, uncontrolled environments such as zero visibility and biohazards.
The course emphasizes safety, team coordination, and operational effectiveness in high-stakes, 24/7 on-call scenarios, differing significantly from recreational or technical diving.
Benefits of the RAID Public Safety Diver (PSD) Course
- Develop skills for search, rescue, and recovery operations in adverse conditions.
- Learn evidence handling and documentation suitable for legal proceedings.
- Gain proficiency in operating under zero visibility, biohazards, and extreme environments.
- Enhance team communication, coordination, and integration with surface support.
- Build specialized capabilities for public safety roles, complementing existing diving experience.
Prerequisites
- Minimum age: 18 years.
- Certified as RAID Explorer 30, Advanced 35, or equivalent from a recognized agency.
- Competent and experienced diver (prior advanced or rescue training recommended).
- Physical fitness suitable for demanding operations.
- Complete the standard RAID dive medical questionnaire and liability release forms.
- Physician approval required if any medical concerns are indicated.
Course Structure
The course combines RAID’s online e-learning for theory with intensive practical training led by an approved RAID Public Safety Diver Instructor. Focus is on scenario-based exercises simulating real PSD operations.
Key topics and skills include:
- Underwater search patterns, recovery techniques, and evidence handling.
- Site assessment, data recording, and legal documentation.
- Operations in zero-visibility and hazardous conditions.
- Team roles, communication protocols, and emergency procedures.
- Integration with surface support and evacuation.
Duration and Depth Limits
Theory completable online (estimated 6-8 hours); practical training typically 3-5 days, including confined and open-water sessions (exact structure determined by instructor and dive center). Dives are done within recreational or extended limits based on prior certification.
Equipment Provided
During training, the dive center typically supplies all required scuba equipment, including:
- Tank
- Regulator
- Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
- Mask, snorkel, fins
- Weights
Participants need only bring a swimsuit and towel.
Certification
Upon successful completion, students receive a globally recognized electronic certification (e-card) issued by RAID. The certification is permanent and downloadable from the RAID portal.
Next Steps to Enroll
1. Create a free account on the RAID User Portal: https://user.diveraid.com
2. Purchase the digital Advanced 35 course materials in the RAID Store and access them via https://diveraid.com/public-safety-diver/ or
3. Contact the center to book, discuss fees, and schedule your session. The center will unlock training materials, conduct the program, and handle any recognition.
The RAID Public Safety Diver course provides structured training for those entering public safety diving roles.
