New Member needs help in Chicago

[ill-j]

Hello,
I need diving help in chicago. I don't dive, would like to, but for now need someone to dive for a phone in Montrose harbor. I know the exact location. If this post violates the rules or is in the wrong place, please provide guidance. otherwise, if you can help or know someone who can, please reach back. Thank you very much in advance!!

 

[GiraffeMarineSalvage]

I don't know anyone personally that can help, but feel there is value to both saying I hope anyone that may be able to help is aware of the potential risks of stray electrical currents (ESD Resources) and that it is important no one disturbs the bottom when first trying (because if silty bottom the visibility will immediately be impacted and then the silt will resettle over your phone making it even more difficult to see...).
A friendly visit to the Corinthian Yacht club there might help you cross paths with someone willing and able to help, it would also be helpful for anyone potentially helping to know the depth and more specific details (for example if in the harbor roughly below a dock or fell off a boat in transit so a wider search area).

 

[ill-j]

Thank you for your reply. There are no hazardous electrical currents there, since the area is used by people who are often in the water there with various devices. As far as the location. I dropped it in a very precise location, next to a large structure. I will follow your advice and check at the yacht club.

 

[mrtechbench]

How common is it to be somewhere and have stray electrical currents?

Is it mostly near docks (lighting, power lifts)?

What typically causes it (frayed wires, bad ground, miswired boxes)?

How far away are they typically dangerous?

I generally dive in places intended for diving but realize marinas, docks, ponds, etc. may have a higher risk. I'm not near Chicago but I wish you the best of luck with your search.

 

[GiraffeMarineSalvage]

How common is it to be somewhere and have stray electrical currents?

Is it mostly near docks (lighting, power lifts)?

What typically causes it (frayed wires, bad ground, miswired boxes)?

How far away are they typically dangerous?

I generally dive in places intended for diving but realize marinas, docks, ponds, etc. may have a higher risk. I'm not near Chicago but I wish you the best of luck with your search.

Regarding how common/uncommon, one of the resources on that above link has a pretty long list if known incidents (https://www.electricshockdrowning.org/uploads/4/8/5/6/48564375/esd_list_-_updated_8.15.25.pdf, which only lists known cases in USA...) but I suspect even with that relatively long list of fatalities there are likely drownings that are recorded as simple drownings as opposed to ESD and regions with less strict electrical codes/code enforcement likely have even more cases. That informative site elaborates on freshwater permits the risk to extend further than if in saltwater but both may be fatal under the right circumstances.