About Urban Search and Rescue (USAR)
Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) is a specialist resource that assists victims who have been trapped or affected by a structural collapse. Often collapses will occur without warning leaving the victims little or no time to escape, for example the Thredbo landslide of 1997.
USAR teams consist of highly trained emergency services workers (fire, police, ambulance/paramedics) doctors, engineers, and search dogs who, are specially trained to respond to USAR emergencies. Together they use specialised equipment, communications and guidelines to help locate, provide medical assistance and remove trapped victims.
USAR teams are trained to operate on a continuous basis for the first 36 hours. Research shows that after this timeframe the survival rate falls considerably.
There are a variety of emergencies/disasters that may cause a structural collapse including:
- earthquakes
- cyclones
- floods
- explosions
- fire
- impact
- terrorist attacks.
Australian Government role
While the States and Territories have the primary responsibility for the protection of life and property, support from the Australian Government may be requested by the States and Territories during an emergency when resources are inadequate, unavailable or overcommitted.
The Australian Government has contributed funding for the enhancement of Australia Urban Search and Rescue Capabilities through the USAR Capability Development Project.
States and Territories roles
States and Territories have responsibility for the protection and preservation of the lives and property of their citizens. This includes legislative and regulatory arrangements in which the emergency management organisations of each State and Territory operate. These arrangements are normally established through State Disaster Plans (DISPLANS) which identify the lead /control agency responsible for planning and response to a particular type of incident or hazard.
Key response agencies for a structural collapse incident would normally include police, fire, ambulance and State Emergency Services (SES).
All State and Territories maintain a plan for USAR. The fire brigade in each jurisdiction is responsible for the establishment, maintenance exercise and up keep of the arrangements and plan.
More information?
To find more information about USAR, visit the following pages: