Embedded within Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) is a specialist team of firefighters that many people may not be aware of. They’re called the technical rescue unit, and they can be deployed to complex rescues locally, or anywhere on the globe, at a moment’s notice

Technical rescue units are comprised of experienced firefighters who have received additional training to respond to major emergencies such as collapsed buildings, high-altitude rescues, or incidents involving heavy transport.

The highly skilled team at Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) is equipped with a variety of heavy-duty machinery to help clear debris after a large fire or crash, or to demolish unsafe properties, as well as a search dog and drone to assess structural damage and search for missing people.

“The main part of our role is to provide technical rescue support for the people of Kent and Medway,” Jim, a Watch Manager for KFRS’ Technical Rescue Team, explained. Because a fire engine can only carry so much, we handle any additional equipment you wish to transport.

“By far the most rewarding aspect of my job is assisting others. Whatever crisis, disaster, or incident they have been a part of, it is our responsibility to assist them in safely returning home.”

The crew also assists partner agencies such as the police, ambulance, and coastguard, as well as responding to national and international disasters.

When we’re deployed to an incident, we work really closely with everyone involved, whether that’s our own crews or a partner agency,” Stacey, a Technical Rescue Technician at KFRS, said. We all have a common goal of assisting someone in their time of need, and when we succeed, it truly makes it all worthwhile.”

Each crew member has received National Resilience Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) training, which is part of a government-funded programme to provide mutual aid and support in the event of major incidents across the country, such as mass flooding.

Some of the team, including Stacey and Jim, are also members of the UK International Search and Rescue (UK-ISAR), a government-led service that sends crews to disasters around the world, such as the Haiti earthquakes in 2021.

KFRS has several specialist teams, including the technical rescue unit. In addition, the service has specialist rope rescue teams, water safety units, and an animal rescue unit.