In the event of a disaster or similar incident and in response to a request for rescue assistance, the West Sussex Fire Brigade Search and Rescue Team can mobilise a trained and equipped team to an affected area anywhere in the world. The team will normally comprise of a Team Leader and four Team Members. The Team also includes specialist emergency care doctors from the Sussex Immediate Care Scheme (SIMCAS) organisation.

The Team forms part of the United Kingdom Fire Services Search & Rescue Team (UKFSSRT).

The SART can provide both a doctor and a Field Commander to UKFSSRT if required, depending upon the nature of the deployment. The Team will also provide individuals with specific skills who, together with individuals from other Brigades, make up teams under the auspices of UKFSSRT for specific humanitarian or training tasks.

All team members must be highly trained, multi-disciplined and flexible in their approach to any incident. Although secondary to their prime rescue function, team members may also become involved in the training of local search and rescue teams within developing countries and in other humanitarian or emergency aid work.

Whilst the main role of the SART is within UKFSSRT it has been recognised that tasks similar to those already identified could be undertaken within the county of West Sussex giving a local dimension to the team's role. In particular circumstances, i.e. a building collapse, it could become part of the West Sussex Fire Brigade Operational Command response. The Team's specialist skills and knowledge could also provide a training resource for use within the county.

Specifically the West Sussex Fire Brigade Search and Rescue Team are required to be able to undertake the following tasks:-

To search for, locate and rescue casualties trapped by structural collapse. To undertake medical treatment of such casualties until transfer to an appropriate medical agency.

To search for, locate and rescue casualties trapped within confined spaces, at height or in other locations having difficult access and egress. To undertake medical treatment of such casualties until transfer to an appropriate medical agency.

To be able to live and work in adverse conditions and a hostile environment and to be capable of being self sufficient for an extended period of time.

To be able to communicate with, train and teach other personnel in the operational procedures and techniques associated with a variety of search and rescue tasks.

To be aware of the requirements for the provision of emergency aid in a disaster relief situation and to be able to positively contribute to such a mission.

SART Home Page