11.6 Establishment of Self-Sufficient Heavy Urban Search and Rescue Teams

(Adopted at 2003 Annual General Meeting)

Preamble

11.6.1. The Government of Canada has identified the need to establish strategically placed Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR) Teams.

11.6.2. The ability of these teams to be self-sustaining when deployed to assist at disasters throughout the nation is critical.

11.6.3. There is a desire that the deployment of HUSAR Teams will not place an additional burden upon communities already dealing with a disaster.

Recommended

11.6.4. The Minister of Public Safety Canada should ensure that  sufficient funding is made available so that strategically-placed HUSAR Teams, be self-sustaining upon deployment for an initial period of not less than 72 hours.

11.6.5. This federal funding should be provided on an ongoing basis to ensure sustainability and ability to deploy effectively those HUSAR Teams that have been strategically identified.

Status in 2021

Discussion

Canadas Heavy Search and Rescue teams were established in 2006. Stable ongoing funding was committed in budget YEAR.

*************************************************************************************************************************************

11.12 Urban Search and Rescue Teams

(Adopted at 2000 Annual General Meeting)

Preamble

11.12.1. There is a need for rapid, adequate response to catastrophic events, both man-made and natural.

11.12.2. These events are presently beyond the capability of local emergency responders to manage.

11.12.3. There is an international Urban Search and Rescue System in place. Canada is not currently a participant in that System, but should be.

Recommended

11.12.4. The Government of Canada should fund the establishment and operation of a number of internationally accredited Urban Search and Rescue teams across  Canada

Status in 2021

Discussion

Canada’s Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR) teams are becoming qualified for International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) accreditation.