The members of the Underwater Response Team (URT) are all certified open water and public safety divers. They have gone through extensive training in underwater investigation as well as evidence, vehicle and body recovery, Fast water incidents and Repelling, which enables them to access bodies of water near steep embankments, cliff faces or from a bridge.

With approximately 100 years total dive experience the team is thoroughly proficient in the use of all standard SCUBA equipment. West Hartford's URT is also adept at utilizing advanced underwater communications systems, lift and recovery equipment and a wide range of additional state-of-the-art personal diving gear. Members are also trained as Medical Response (MRT) and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT).

The team trains every month as a unit. Team members are encouraged to take specialized courses to enhance their capabilities in "extreme skills" such underwater photography, mixed gas use, salvage, confined space and ice diving.

They can be reached at:

Sgt. Andrew Schiffer 860/523-2002 ext. 8221

Officer Peter Juda 860/523-2002 ext. 8298

Officer Frederick Malona 860/523-2002 ext. 8209

Officer Philip Mugford 860/523-2002 ext. 8176

Officer Wayne Potvin 860/523-2002 ext. 8218

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