Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) involves the location, rescue (extrication), and initial medical stabilization of victims trapped in confined spaces. Structural collapse is most often the cause of victims being trapped, but victims may also be trapped in transportation accidents, mines, confined spaces, areas requiring high angle rescue, waterways that would require swift water/flood rescue, and in collapsed trenches.

St. Charles Fire Department’s USAR Involvement:
The fire department has had an internal technical rescue team since 1993 and has the capability to conduct USAR operations. However, since the events of 9/11 the department has realized that it is very important to continue investing in USAR equipment and training to improve our current capabilities. In addition to equipment and training, the department has sought out relationships with other departments within the St. Louis region to work together to build a better, self sustaining Urban Search and Rescue capability. To take advantage of regional resources, the department is a core member of the St. Charles County Heavy Rescue Task Force. Working with other departments in the region allows all of us to share our equipment, training, operate from common standard operating guidelines and prepare for major disasters.