50 ILCS 755/5

In so much as police, fire, and emergency medical service departments are recognized as necessary public safety organizations, the State of Illinois hereby recognizes the longstanding role and purpose of those persons specially trained in performing surface and underwater rescue and recovery of persons and property within the waterways of Illinois for the purpose of public safety and accident prevention. For purposes of furthering public safety and promoting safe use of Illinois waterways, this Act has been created for the benefit of citizens and visitors to this State and its many communities.