Earthquake in Turkey: Merseyside firefighters deployed to Turkey

Five members of MFRS’ search and rescue team will be among those providing specialized technical support to help with the search and rescue operations.

The International Search and Rescue (UKISAR) team is made up of 77 firefighters and staff from Merseyside, Cheshire, Essex, Greater Manchester, Hampshire, Kent, Lancashire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, London, Mid and West Wales, Scotland, South Wales and West Midlands.

A team of special search and rescue dogs – including one from Merseyside – have also been deployed.

The team was dispatched by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office at the request of the Turkish government.

UKISAR is able to use specialist search equipment, including seismic listening devices, to identify and locate individuals. The team also has equipment for cutting and breaking concrete, shoring and support tools, and equipment for lifting heavy loads.

Phil Garrigan, Chief Fire Officer of MFRS, said: “The situation in Türkiye and Syria is devastating to view as the number of fatalities and seriously injured unfortunately continues to rise.

“We have the skills, expertise and equipment to really make a difference, and I’m incredibly proud that we and other fire and emergency services across the country are able to step up and offer this vital support – she will be invaluable in helping rescue teams are already working tirelessly in the disaster-stricken area.

“Helping people in need is what we do in the Fire and Rescue Service and that desire to help extends well beyond our borders here in Merseyside.

“The team of 77 firefighters and staff will be able to deploy a range of technical expertise, gear and equipment over the next 14 days in areas where it is most needed to help save lives.”

UKISAR – led by MFRS – is made up of 14 UK FRS and stands ready to mobilize and assist when called upon by disaster-stricken countries. It is always deployed as the official UK government team once an application for support has been made.

The team primarily responds to overseas search and rescue emergencies on behalf of the UK.

Each deployed UKISAR team is self-sufficient on arrival, providing their own food, water, shelter, sanitation, communications and all necessary equipment to conduct search and rescue operations for up to 14 days.

This is to ensure that no additional burden is imposed on a country already suffering from resource depletion following a sudden onset disaster.