BSR Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Team
The Blue Sky Rescue (BSR) Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Team is the elite force within BSR, playing a crucial role in international missions. When cities face disasters such as earthquakes, floods, or explosions, the USAR team rapidly mobilizes. They conduct wide-area assessments, manual and canine searches, and use advanced life-detection technology, such as sound wave/vibration detectors and infrared imaging, to locate trapped victims.
The BSR USAR team is structured into five main departments: management, search, rescue, medical, and logistics. This team consists of a diverse group of professionals, including the team leader, deputy leader, planning officer, liaison officer, structural engineer, safety officer, technical search specialist, canine search handler, hazardous materials expert, rescue team leader, rescue workers, heavy machinery specialist, medical officer, nurse, logistics supervisor, logistics expert, and communications specialist.
During the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake in China, BSR's USAR team coordinated the transfer of $10 million in relief supplies, provided temporary housing for over 300,000 people, opened emergency air rescue channels, and organized the donation of 11,600 blankets before winter.
The USAR team follows international standards set by INSARAG (International Search and Rescue Advisory Group) under the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA). These standards ensure efficient coordination during joint missions and prevent confusion or duplication of efforts.
The BSR USAR Team team participates in INSARAG's network under UN OCHA and contributes to the development of INSARAG guidelines, ensuring effective coordination during joint missions. BSR also engages in annual UN OCHA drills, specialized training, and evaluations to maintain its high-quality emergency response capabilities.