In 1990, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) established the National Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Response System, which included the formation of integrated disaster response task forces. Currently, there are 28 FEMA US&R Task Forces spread throughout the continental United States. Eight of these Task Forces are located within California, including two in the San Francisco Bay Area. Designed for heavy search and rescue in the event of large-scale disasters such as structural collapse in an earthquake, these Task Forces are comprised of firefighters and civilians with diverse backgrounds and specialty training.

When mobilized, each Task Force is comprised of 62 specialists that include physicians, structural engineers, heavy equipment operators, communications experts, hazardous materials specialists, rescue firefighters, search dog handlers and logistics specialists. By design, there are two Task Force members assigned to each position for the rotation and relief of personnel allowing for round-the-clock task force operations. In addition, Task Forces are capable of operating totally self-sufficient for the first 72 hours of deployment.

Related Website Links:

DisasterEngineer.org

www.catf-4.us

www.usar.org

sfmd.ca.gov/USAR.html

FEMA