RAID - Search & Recovery
RAID Search and Recovery Course
The RAID Search and Recovery course is a specialty program for certified divers to master techniques for locating and retrieving lost objects underwater. It covers search patterns, enhanced navigation, use of specialized tools such as lift bags and line reels, recovery procedures, and risk management.
The course includes practical exercises to simulate real-world scenarios, emphasizing safety, teamwork, and effective execution in various conditions.
Benefits of the RAID Search and Recovery Course
- Develops systematic search techniques for efficient location of small and large objects
- Provides training in safe recovery methods using specialized equipment
- Enhances underwater navigation and problem-solving skills
- Improves understanding of planning, organization, and potential challenges in recovery operations
- Promotes safe practices, including handling limited visibility and team coordination
- Adds practical utility to recreational diving, applicable for personal gear, photography equipment, or wreck items
Prerequisites
- Minimum age: 15 years
- Certified as RAID Open Water 20 diver or equivalent from a recognized agency
- Completion of the standard RAID medical questionnaire (certain conditions may require physician approval)
- Signing of liability release and safe diving practices agreement forms
Participants must complete or update all required RAID forms via the RAID User Portal.
Course Structure
The course is conducted by a certified RAID instructor and combines self-paced online theory with practical water sessions:
1. Academic Development Completed via RAID’s online FREe-Learning platform. Topics include:
- Search and recovery dive planning, organization, procedures, and techniques
- Different search patterns and underwater navigation methods
- Introduction to specialized tools (e.g., lift bags, ropes, reels) and their use
- Considerations for safe recovery, including weight estimation and lifting
- Potential problems and risk management Students access digital manuals, complete quizzes, and pass a final exam.
2. Equipment Orientation
Review and setup of recovery-specific equipment alongside standard scuba gear.
3. Practical Water Sessions
- Confined water training (optional, depending on center): Initial skill practice.
- Open water training: Minimum of two dives Skills focus on executing search patterns, locating objects, rigging and lifting items safely, and team communication.
Duration and Format
- Theory: Self-paced online (typically 4-6 hours)
- Practical sessions: Usually completed over 1-2 days, including at least two open water dives
- Overall program: Flexible, often over a weekend
Equipment Provided
During training, the dive center typically supplies all required scuba equipment, including:
- Tank
- Regulator
- Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
- Mask, snorkel, fins
- Weights
- Specialty recovery tools such as lift bags, line reels, ropes, and grappling devices
Certification
Upon successful completion of the academics, practical skills, and instructor sign-offs, students receive a globally recognized electronic certification (e-card) issued by RAID. The certification is permanent and downloadable from the RAID portal. It qualifies divers to plan and conduct search and recovery dives within recreational limits.
Next Steps to Enroll
1. Create a free account on the RAID User Portal: https://user.diveraid.com
2. Purchase the Search and Recovery course materials in the RAID Store and access them via https://diveraid.com/search-and-recovery/.
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 Search and Recovery certification equips divers with specialized skills for effective underwater location and retrieval operations, enhancing safety and capability in recreational diving scenarios.
