The Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Task Force in New York is designated as New York Task Force 1 (NY-TF1) and is staffed by elite members of the City’s police and fire departments. NY-TF1 task force includes:
NY-TF1 can deploy as a Light Task Force (34 people) or as a Heavy Task Force (80 people).
NY-TF1 also has members who serve on FEMA Incident Support Teams (ISTs). An IST is activated to coordinate and support US&R assets in the field.
NY-TF1 travels with an extensive equipment cache that is vital to its mission. US&R equipment is packed to respond with the team and includes specialized rescue tools, such as search microphones sensitive enough to detect human breathing. The cache also includes personal protective equipment, sanitation and showers, and Meals Ready to Eat (MREs).
What are the Participating Agencies?
NY-TF1 is comprised of active duty personnel from the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) and the New York City Police Department (NYPD). The New York City Office of Emergency Management (OEM) acts as the team's sponsoring agency.
Members of the FDNY Special Operations Command (SOC) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) serve on NY-TF1. These professionals draw on expertise from their daily service in New York as well as further specialized training in US&R techniques.
Members of the NYPD Emergency Services Unit (ESU) serve on NY-TF1. These officers are trained in technical rescue and sharpen their skills through rescue responses within the city and US&R activations.
The New York City Office of Emergency Management provides dedicated professionals committed to program management, development, preparedness and administrative duties.