RAPID UK is undoubtedly best known for its search and rescue work. During its 15 year history it has built up an enviable reputation. The experience it has gained in over 20 operational deployments and the experience of its operational members means that it is able to tailor its response to the circumstances of the disaster.
Operational Members
RAPID UK operational members are volunteers who have undergone a demanding selection process and completed an intensive training programme. Many of the volunteers are also members of the UK’s emergency services; a number of whom are acknowledged as amongst the most experienced within their field who teach USAR related subjects at the national level to various UK statutory authorities. The Operations Committee selects the most appropriate team structure according to the situation and the opportunity to respond. RAPID UK develops members and teams to adapt to the disaster to give its optimum assistance to those affected, this means its members must be flexible, adaptive and able to fill a number of roles.
Full Team Structure (35-60 Personnel)
RAPID UK trains to the United Nations INSARAG guidelines. The USAR team structure is taken directly from this guidance. The size of the team deployed is influenced by the specific situation as the timely and appropriate response is a priority. Limitations on initial and onward travel combined with the emerging information lead the Operations Committee to make dynamic decisions regarding team size and roles. Whenever possible and provided the size of the team does not inhibit effectiveness a “large “deployment size of 35-60 personnel is selected.
Smaller Teams (15 Personnel)
When circumstance dictate RAPID UK has a very effective and well-tested smaller team that is highly mobile and flexible. This team is able to function whilst additional teams are deploying into the disaster zone. This smaller team has a strong focus on information gathering, co-ordination, assessment and communications whilst also bringing technical search and rescue abilities. The team has a leader, co-ordinator, medical co-ordinator, equipment co-ordinator, two section leaders and SAR technicians.