About

Telford Diving & Rescue Unit (TDU) is a non-profit volunteer organization that has been serving the community for over 75 years

Founded in 1947, the unit was initially organized to provide volunteer assistance in the recovery of drowning victims. Since then, the unit has expanded its operations to include search and recovery. Over the years the unit has responded to more than 600 drowning and over 1000 search and recovery operations for various departments, agencies and private individuals. In fulfilling these missions, the unit serves Eastern Pennsylvania and surrounding areas.

The unit is the only volunteer dive operation in the world to utilize four different Surface Supplied Diving Systems in conjunction with SCUBA. Through training and practice, the unit has become proficient in the use of its equipment and is able to operate in many different water conditions. The unit has rescued people from rain swollen streams, helped free trapped motor vehicle occupants and recovered victims from very deep quarries. The unit provides rescue personnel for major water events and conducts community water safety programs.

Timeline

• 1947—TDU founded as an attachment to Telford Fire Company.
• 1975—TDU becomes an independent unit and moves to its current location in Harleysville, PA.
• 1984—The U.S. Navy retires Mark V deep sea gear. TDU follows suit and introduces Mark 12 deep sea gear.
• 2000—TDU deploys 2 SL 27 Surface Supplied Dive Systems (SSDS) into service.
• 2008—2 AGA full face masks and side scan sonar are added to expand TDU service capabilities.
• 2009—TDU adds scanning sonar service