Turks and Caicos Islands Search and Rescue Task Force (T-SART) to receive Urban Search and Rescue Training

PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF

DISASTER MANAGEMENT AND EMERGENCIES

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 26 February 2025: Twenty-one (21) participants from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, TCI Fire and Rescue and TCI Regiment will be trained in Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) this week 24^th-28^th February in Providenciales.

This cross-functional collaboration is a partnership between The Department of Disaster Management & Emergencies (DDME), TCI Domestic Fire & Rescue and The Jamaica Fire Brigade.  The week in training will focus on various aspects of USAR, including basic skills, Shoering techniques, rescue tools, and triage.  Multiple realistic scenarios will be used to test the coordinated actions of the task force and enhance their ability to protect the public in a search and rescue event.

As outlined in the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) emergency response mechanism, Jamaica is the subregional focal point for the North-Western subregion which includes the Turks and Caicos Islands.  The training will be facilitated by seasoned professionals from The Jamaica Fire Brigade, Sgt. Christopher Beason and District Officers Richard Forte, Damian Lloyd and Rowan Williams.

“Once this training concludes, successful participants will form a National Task Force that will lead during Search and Rescue incidents.   We hope that this collaboration will also form a long-lasting relationship between The Turks & Caicos Islands and The Jamaica Fire Brigade – an enhanced relationship with countries in the region is crucial to address shared challenges, share resources and capitalise on mutual strengths.” Aubrey Felix, Fire Service Operations and Training Manager- TCI Fire and Rescue.

“The Department of Disaster Management & Emergencies (DDME) is proud to provide support during this week of vital training.  Now more than ever, we see the need for expertly trained persons to carry out search and rescue efforts in times of emergencies and disasters.  This training will ensure that responders are equipped to act with precision, improved coordination and work as team to handle critical situations that will ultimately save lives.”   Mr. Kevern De Bellott, Deputy Director- DDME.

The training session began on 24 February 2025, with a pre-test to determine the current knowledge of participants and identify areas for improvement.  This approach will ensure that all participants receive relevant training to improve their existing skills and learn new techniques.  Training will conclude on 28 February 2025, with a post-test and final simulation.