Urban search and rescue

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Urban search and rescue (USAR) is a specialized field of emergency response that involves the location, extrication, and initial medical stabilization of victims trapped in confined spaces. USAR teams are typically deployed in response to natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornadoes, as well as man-made incidents like building collapses, explosions, and terrorist attacks.

History[edit | edit source]

The concept of urban search and rescue originated in the 1980s, evolving from traditional firefighting and rescue operations. The need for specialized USAR teams became evident after several high-profile disasters, including the 1985 Mexico City earthquake and the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake in California. These events highlighted the necessity for trained personnel equipped with advanced tools and techniques to effectively respond to complex urban disasters.

Components of USAR[edit | edit source]

USAR operations are typically divided into several key components:

  • Search: The process of locating victims trapped in debris using various methods, including search dogs, electronic search devices, and visual search techniques.
  • Rescue: The physical extrication of victims from confined spaces, which may involve the use of specialized equipment such as hydraulic rescue tools, cutting torches, and shoring systems.
  • Medical: Providing initial medical care to victims, including triage, first aid, and advanced life support.
  • Logistics: Managing the resources and equipment necessary for USAR operations, including transportation, communication, and supply management.
  • Planning: Developing strategies and plans for effective response, including incident command and coordination with other emergency services.

Training and Certification[edit | edit source]

USAR team members undergo extensive training to develop the skills required for effective response. This training includes courses in structural collapse rescue, confined space rescue, rope rescue, and hazardous materials handling. Certification is typically provided by national or regional agencies, such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the United States.

Equipment[edit | edit source]

USAR teams utilize a wide range of specialized equipment to perform their tasks. This includes:

Notable USAR Operations[edit | edit source]

Several notable USAR operations have demonstrated the importance and effectiveness of these teams:

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD