Abstract
Aim: The main objective of the article is to present and analyse the current division of the equipment of search and rescue groups.
Introduction: The most dynamic development of equipment standards in Poland has been observed after actions carried out outside the country borders. The experience gained abroad has enabled changes to improve the safety and quality of rescue operations. Due to the fact the quality of operations is considerably influenced by the leisure conditions provided for rescuers, special measures have been taken to expand the logistics equipment. An operations base is a complex area which should enable the rescuers to rest, to carry out equipment maintenance works and to provide medical aid with the highest hygienic standards.
Project and methods: Equipment standards for various capability levels was conducted using the document “The organisation rules of search and rescue operations in the National Firefighting and Rescue System”. The source material for the analysis is not extensive, as, so far, no relevant publications on search operations have been created. Still, rescuers have had impact on the development of standards from the start. The article presents the categories of equipment in use during search operations (electronic equipment), and technical measures (high-altitude, chemical and medical rescue, etc.). Logistics (quartermaster’s) equipment is a new element within the groups’ equipment, and the quantities in which it is used in Poland and abroad are specified. The differences confirm the varying characteristics of the operations of search and rescue groups inside the country and abroad.
Conclusions: The practical experience of the authors resulting from their participation in international operations and the obtained results of the analysis of source documents made it possible to formulate the main conclusions. 1. Equipment standards should be updated on an ongoing basis due to the continuous development of tactics and technology. 2. Logistics is an important aspect of operations abroad. It enables the ergonomic, self-sufficient operations of specialised search and rescue groups (SGPR). Optimum leisure conditions are directly related to the possibility of the conducting of long-term operations, while simultaneously maintaining the highest rate of involvement. 3. Equipment standards must be based on a two-way approach, for inside Poland and abroad.
Keywords: equipment, specialised search and rescue group, equipment standard, USAR, logistics, capability, operations base
Type of article: review article