Frequently Asked Questions
What is Florida’s US&R response system?
This system is a framework for structuring local emergency personnel into integrated disaster response task forces. These task forces, complete with necessary tools and equipment, and specialized training and skills, are deployed by FASAR in times of catastrophic structural collapse.
Where are Florida’s US&R teams located?
There are 9 Florida US&R Task Forces spread throughout Florida trained and equipped to handle structural collapse and wide area disasters. This link leads to an introduction/explanation of the Program, and to the map of the 9 Florida US&R locations. (see Page 9 of the pdf for Florida locations)
What are the first steps the teams take when they arrive at a site?
The US&R team meets with the field incident commander - the local firefighter or emergency specialist who is in charge of the site. After a general situation update and briefing, some team members set up a base of operations at the site, including tents, equipment and a stage area. Meanwhile, search and rescue specialists and structural engineers inspect the site. They look for major problem areas, likely areas to search, the condition of the collapse and hazardous materials. Also at this time, logistics team members are contacting local vendors to obtain heavy equipment, shoring materials, food, portable toilets and other supplies.
How are US&R teams different from other search and rescue teams?
US&R teams organize existing search and rescue capability into a state program that can quickly deploy to an event. They have additional training, and must be able to deploy within four hours and to sustain themselves for 72 hours. They must also have a roster that fills 31 different positions with at least two people for each position. To receive the FEMA/FL certification, the team must be approved by a US&R oversight board that includes leaders in the field and FASAR officials. One of the difficulties in obtaining the certification is being able to staff a complete roster of at least 62 trained individuals.
If I donate to FDE, how much of the money goes to US&R Specialists?
About 99% of it! We’d like to say 100% of it but we hire an accountant who specializes in 501c3s and we have web site development and maintenance costs. We have no paid employees and serious donors are welcome to review our books.
How do I know you are a legitimate non-profit 501c3?
Due to our aversion to doing jail time we are quite thorough in obeying civil and tax law. Yes, we are a completely legitimate Florida not for profit corporation and a Federally Registered 501c3. Any interested donor will receive the State of Florida and IRS paperwork.
If you would like to help with a financial donation, then please donate here through our secure PayPal account.
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