Some EMS Units May Handle Technical Rescue Operations
Technical rescue units are typically staffed by highly trained individuals. Technical rescue operations are usually within the realm of fire based EMS but some technical rescue units are run by third service EMS or even police departments.
Technical rescue operations can include many possible scenarios. water rescue, trench rescue, high angle rescue, hazardous material operations, confined space rescue and extrications from the simple to the complex can all fall within the scope of technical rescue operations.
Members of technical rescue teams go through high degrees of training. For starters, they are typically paramedics.
The medical training might even include certification as a critical care or a tactical paramedic. Since most rescues involve a live patient, it is important for members of the technical rescue team have the ability to address patient needs.
training in other disciplines such as hazmat, trench, confined space and high angle are at least to the operations level and commonly to the technician level. A team member trained to operations level has the ability to provide support for the operation. If trained to the technician level, the team member can actually carry out all the duties the operation requires.
Depending on the size of the community, technical rescue units may be free standing or staffed through multi-jurisdictional agencies.