JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department deployed multiple response teams to the Florida Panhandle on Thursday ahead of Hurricane Isaias, including a 40-member urban search and rescue team.
Department officials confirmed in a news release that the deployment will not impact emergency coverage in Duval County, where all local fire stations and units remain fully staffed and operational.
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The deployment consists of a Type III Urban Search and Rescue Team, three members assigned to the Northeast Florida All-Hazards Incident Management Team, and one member supporting the state incident support team. The Type III USAR team will assist with locating, reaching, medically stabilizing and extricating survivors trapped in damaged structures or areas isolated by storm impacts.
Tactical specialist makeup includes rescue specialists, two certified live-find search dogs and their handlers, hazardous materials specialists, medical specialists, structural specialists, technical search and heavy rigging specialists, logistics, communications and planning staff, along with a five-member ground support element, the release detailed.
Prepared for extended operations, the rescue team is equipped to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours with its own food, water, shelter, fuel and protective gear. The deployment includes a convoy of approximately 17 vehicles carrying specialized assets designed to navigate terrain cut off by debris or flooding.
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In Washington County, three department members will deploy to the local Emergency Operations Center to support local staff in storm preparation, response and recovery efforts. These members are filling roles as public information officer, deputy operations section chief and logistics section chief. Additionally, one department member deployed to assist the Florida Division of State Fire Marshal as a resource unit leader within the state search and rescue support team.
JFRD Director and Fire Chief Percy Golden II credited local crews for maintaining city coverage while praising Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan for supporting the regional assistance effort.
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“When our neighbors need help, Jacksonville shows up,” Golden said. “Our members bring a wide range of skills and qualifications that make them subject matter experts in these types of missions. We’re grateful to Mayor Deegan for her support in sending them and to the crews here at home stepping up so we can.”
The rescue team will stage in Tallahassee ahead of landfall, placing members in position to begin rescue efforts as soon as weather conditions allow.
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