Urban Search and Rescue (US&R)
COMPOSITION
70-person (Type I) 34-person (Type III) tactical unit for search and
rescue operations.
Multi-disciplinary organization:
Search element
Medical element
Rescue element
Technical support element, including hazardous materials
Command element
Totally self-sufficient for the first 72 hours of operation.
Full equipment cache to support the Task Force's operations.
Supported by DHS/FEMA sponsored Incident Support Team.
CAPABILITIES
Capable of round-the-clock search and rescue operations (two 12-hour shifts).
Search operations:
Physical
Canine
Electronic
Rescue operations in various types of structures:
Wood frame
Steel frame
Un-reinforced masonry
Reinforced concrete
Sophisticated medical treatment capabilities limited to:
Injured Task Force members; and
Initial treatment of victims encountered during operations.
Technical support capabilities for Task Force operations:
Structural integrity assessments;
Liaison with heavy equipment/crane operators;
On and off site communication capabilities within Task Force,
the Incident Support Team, and the local jurisdiction; and
Hazardous materials assessments and decontamination.