Dive Team on Patrol 11

In addition to Mercer Island, the marine unit operates routine patrols for the cities of Medina and Renton, as well as the Towns of Hunts Point and Yarrow Point (these jurisdictions currently contract with Mercer Island for waterbased services). We provide routine waterfront patrols, response to emergencies 24-hours a day, enforce state/local harbor codes (with emphasis on boating safety/education), and offer helpful assistance to boaters-in-need.

Key Benefits

·         Being proactive allows us to have contact with the boating public as well as waterfront homeowners and park patrons to bring the concept of "Safe Boating and Recreation" directly to the public.

·         Our patrol vessels and personnel can assist or back-up land based police and fire units on emergencies.

·         Working together with other marine agencies we are able to provide an emergency response throughout all of Lake Washington.

Capabilities

Emergency response 24-hours a day, 365 days/year. Our personnel are well-versed in marine laws and regulations are several are cross-trained to act as agents of the U.S. Customs. We also work in cooperation with area drug enforcement agencies to provide support for drug interdiction operations.

Occasionally, we equip our vessels to operate in an emergency/special operations mode. This can be during high winds and storms, or during special events. During this time we try to equip the vessels with the appropriate personnel for the situation. During Seafair for example, we place all vessels in service with extended patrol hours, with additional enforcement/rescue personnel, to handle the increased activity level.