The US Coast Guard are famous for their program of search and rescue. Take a look to see if Canada has a similar program and if they do get him in that. IF not have him apply to get in the US Coast guard as a rescue swimmer. I know the training is not easy but those who make it through are very good at what they do.
I know many power companies have trained crews that will travel through out the states to assist in any type of natural disaster to help get power lines back up and peoples power restored. Does not matter if it from a hurricane, tornado, blizzard ot other natural disaster they are trained and ready to go as soon as possible.