IN order to be part of the Underwater Rescue team, candidates must undergo a stringent selection process.
They are first chosen depending on the available spots based on the quota for each state.
They will need to pass the Individual Physical Proficiency Test, a module used by the Fire and Rescue Department to measure the fitness level of its members.
Candidates are also required to perform a set of physical and health screening tests before being sent to the Terengganu Safety and Training Centre (TSTC) for certification.
Only those who satisfy the examiners will be certified as divers.
The department is currently coming up with its own certification process without having to go through TSTC, which will enable more candidates to be certified under the development programme.
The department currently has 638 dive sets of various brands, including Mares, Poseidon and Dive Rite.
Many of them are equipped with underwater communication systems to enable communication with the teams while conducting operations.
Each team is also equipped with more than 600 Kevlar, fibre and aluminium boats, amphibious vehicles, jet skis and underwater scooters to assist personnel during strong currents.
Plans are under way to replace old equipment and get new boats.