The Marin County Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Team is comprised of a forty-eight member staff, all of whom are trained at least to the Rescue Systems One Level. The team is considered a "multi-hazard" discipline, since it may be needed for a variety of emergencies or disasters. The team is certified as a "heavy" rescue team by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.
Several members are trained as technical specialists, capable of performing confined space rescue, water rescue, physical search and rescue operations in collapsed structures, initial medical stabilization of injured response personnel and trapped victims, hazardous materials categorization, structural hazard evaluation, and stabilization of damaged structures. The team is composed of members from the fire department and department of public works utilizing the strengths and expertise of both agencies.
USAR’s Five Major Functional Elements:
Search
Rescue
Technical
Medical
Heavy Equipment
The Marin County USAR team is designed to be totally self-sufficient for the first 48 hours of operation. Specialized equipment includes concrete and steel cutting tools, breaking devices, portable generators, power saws, drills, air bags, lighting, ropes and other technical rescue items. Other equipment carried by the three designated rescue units includes medical supplies, hazardous materials and radiation monitors, protective clothing, victim locating devices, search cameras, water rescue boats, communication equipment, and a laptop computer.
Marin County USAR Team | |
Saturday, February 4, 2012
