What is USAR?
What is USAR? So often that we forget to explain what it is we do. USAR stands for Urban Search and Rescue. Okay, so what does that mean? Let’s dive right in.
What is Urban Search and Rescue?
There are many disciplines of search and rescue. Urban Search and Rescue (USAR), Wilderness Search and Rescue, Mountain Search and Rescue, Combat/Military Search and Rescue, Maritime Search and Rescue, Ski Patrol/Avalanche Search and rescue and many more. The premise of all of these teams is the same, find the missing person. The difference is the environment that they specialize in. Each environment requires a different skillsets, equipment, etc.
Where is USAR Used?
Urban Search and Rescue is naturally focused on the urban environment. The mission is focused on technical rescue; with the objectives of locate, extricate and medically stabilize. There are many positions on an USAR team, including rescue, hazmat, medical, search teams, etc. Within each of these categories are multiple skillsets. As an example a rescuer will be trained in ropes, collapse, trench, and confined space. A search team encompasses search team managers, canine search specialist and search canines. All this to say that within the team there is a vast amount of experience that can respond to the aid of those trapped, injured, etc. All of these trained individuals will come together to be part of a team, often called a task force. As an example, Idaho Disaster Dogs are the canine component of Idaho Task Force, which is operated through the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department.
When is USAR Called?
Urban Search and Rescue Teams are called to respond in various emergencies. Events that would typically require a response are man made or natural disasters, such as terrorism, earthquakes, hurricanes, building collapse, etc. The team is also able to respond to emergency scenes that require special skill sets on the local level. Additionally we can be requested from another agency as a resource.
Why Do We Need USAR Canines?
In any of these types of events, canines are of utmost importance. Even with today’s technology, the rescue dogs tend to be faster and more efficient. Urban Search and Rescue teams are well equipped and specially trained. However, when an event like this happens there is a lot of work that has to be done. The speed and efficiency of rescue dogs, enables us to more quickly locate areas with victims, due to their amazing ability of scent. We are then able to dedicate our limited resources to areas with probable victims. This allows us to do the most good with the limited amount of time available. These canines also receive special training to be able to traverse obstacles and work in this environment. This allows them to access areas with potential victims.
Are USAR Canines Only Good For USAR?
Absolutely not. As mentioned above there are certainly disciplines that search and rescue teams focus on. However, there is much overlap in the base skill set. This means that we are able to adapt our response to multiple environments. We believe that many hands make light work, thus we focus on working as a team with our amazing partners. The goal is to bring all these resources together to do the most good for those in need.
Search and Rescue
Search and Rescue, no matter the discipline, is often a forgotten resource. We understand that we think about these things more often than the rest of the community. However, this is certainly a resource that when needed, you will be happy exists. Imagine for a second, if you ended up in an event like this, the best sound you might hear is a dog barking. The best thing you might see is a dogs face staring at you. Our search and rescue teams train every day to be ready when needed. We appreciate all of your support.
CritterDoc Corner - Aprill Sherman, DVM
An Animal First Aid kit for quick and easy access can be helpful at home and when traveling. It is best to get to your local veterinary clinic or vet emergency hospital expediently. Keep their contact information and addresses in your phone. Another important number is the Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661. Some key items to have in a kit are: exam gloves, gauze and bandage material, Benadryl (for allergic reaction), triple antibiotic ointment, styptic powder (for bleeding), saline eye rinse, and a muzzle and towel (to protect you and your pet). The purpose of this kit is to safely stabilize your pet until you can get to a veterinarian.
