At approximately 01:17 (UTC) / 04:17hrs local time, on Monday, 6 February 2023 a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit southern Turkey and northern Syria, shortly followed by a second 7.7 magnitude quake. This was the largest earthquake to hit the…
How innovative technologies can accelerate search and rescue operations and increase the safety of first responders
After earthquakes or other natural or man-made disasters first responders rush to collapsed buildings to find and extricate possible survivors as fast as possible, often bringing their own health and safety in danger. Therefore, the European- and Japanese-funded security project…
Integration of innovation and technology and USAR coordination in major disasters
The Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Coordination Mechanism introduced by the United Nations International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) is critical for international disaster response, to provide effective and efficient tactical operations to lessen victim mortality. The INSARAG Coordination…
Classified Light USAR teams to take part in international humanitarian assistance from 2021
In international Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) missions, the well-trained and competent USAR teams from different countries are critical for life-saving activities in affected countries. To achieve this, an internationally recognized classification system is set up by the United Nations…
Kansas Search and Rescue Task Force Team Deployed to Florida for Hurricane Response
Multiple Kansas agencies are deploying first responders to Florida for Hurricane Dorian response efforts as the storm moves closer to the eastern coast of US An Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team comprised of members from multiple Kansas agencies has…
Hampshire, UK firefighter deployed in Bangladesh diphtheria crisis
A highly skilled Hampshire firefighter has been deployed to help medical efforts to combat a diphtheria outbreak in Bangladesh. Watch Manager of the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team at Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) Simon Forster is one…
Hampshire UK Establish Elite Firefighter Hub
A hub of elite firefighters trained to deal with disasters from earthquakes and tsunamis to terror attacks and mass explosions is being assembled in Hampshire, UK. The crews will be based at Eastleigh Fire Station which will have 15 specialist…
An overview of UK high volume pumps
The following article provides the reader with a description of the UK Fire & Rescue Service National Resilience High Volume Pump (HVP) capability and its component parts. Distribution and National Picture The original New Dimension Programme was designed to strengthen…
Tactical Developments in USAR Coordination
Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) procedures and techniques have been honed over many years drawing on user / rescuer experiences of tragic events such as earthquakes and typhoons, tsunamis and tornados, as well as man-made crises such as urban terrorist…