HAHNVILLE — Public safety diving is extremely dangerous and usually done in zero visibility water, according to St. Charles Parish Sheriff Greg Champagne.

Thankfully, an Entergy Corporation grant will assist the Sheriff’s Office in outfitting its Dive Team with updated equipment, increasing safety for local divers.

St. Charles Parish Sheriff recently announced Entergy was donating $17,331 to purchase safety equipment and properly outfit team members.

The 10-member St. Charles Sheriff’s Office Dive Team is comprised of deputies assigned to various roles within the agency who volunteer to serve as a team member.

Dive team members respond to emergencies in South Louisiana water ways. They are responsible for underwater rescue, search and recovery and processing under water crime scenes.

“We are happy to assist in providing updated diving equipment to St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office dive team to ensure the safety and efficiency of the law enforcement divers,” said Waterford 3 Vice President John Dinelli.

“We appreciate the constant support and dedication the Sheriff’s Office provides to the local residents, industry and surrounding community.”

Entergy Louisiana president and CEO Phillip May said Entergy Louisiana takes pride in community safety.

“This investment will ensure the Sheriff’s Office will be able to rapidly respond to emergencies, including on water ways throughout the parish,” May said.