Orange County

Orange County Fire Rescue adds 17 new rescue divers

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Orange County Fire Rescue has just added 17 new rescue divers to its team.

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The divers have trained in a variety of emergency situations, including dark water and watercraft rescues.

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Officials said the divers worked in dark waters during the day and evening hours, with little to no visibility.

Photos: Orange County Fire Rescue adds 17 new rescue divers

“During most of the year, the dive team averages two to three calls a month,” said Lt. Brandon Allen with Orange County Fire Rescue.  “We see an increase of water rescue calls during the summer months, and we do prepare for those types of calls with continuous training.”

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Among those divers was Samantha Botha, whom Channel 9 reported on this week for our women’s history month series.

She was one of only a few women who applied to join the dive team.

WATCH: Meet Samantha Botha, one of Orange County Fire Rescue’s newest dive team members

All 17 members were immediately assigned and are expected to operate as rescue divers.

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