Dozens of veteran rescuers and rescuers in training, including search canines from across California, gathered on February 9, 2023, at the Los Angeles Fire Department's John Ruedy Memorial Training Center (JRMTC) to attend a Regional Technical Search Specialist course.

The technician-level search training that simulated a variety of disasters, was conducted under the auspices of the California Specialized Training Institute (CSTI), a division of the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES).

The day-long event specifically provided students a hands-on opportunity to learn about and become certified in the use of advanced search tools and systems, including, cameras, listening devices and other specialty equipment designed to optimize the efforts of rescuers in a large scale disaster.

We would not be able to have the variety of complex equipment to use and facilities to train at without a couple of agencies and their generous support. They help with this facility, shoring up budget shortfalls, and all the lifesaving programs that we represent to maintain a high level of service.

First, the LAFD Foundation: The Foundation provides vital equipment and funds critical programs to better equipd the LAFD to save lives and protect communities. Many of the structures and training site props we have, as well as a variety of life saving tools, equipment, and vehicles, were provided through generous donations to the Foundation. Visit supportlafd.org to learn more about this program and the support it provides the LAFD.

Second, the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation: The SDF is a non-profit, non-governmental organization based in Santa Paula, California. Their mission is to strengthen disaster response in America by rescuing and recruiting dogs, and partnering them with firefighters and other first responders to find people buried alive in the wreckage of disasters. The SDF has provided many K9’s to the Search and Rescue community. Next week three LAFD Members of CA-TF1 will begin their training with the SDF and will be matched with a Search Dog. This program and the search Canine are provided at no cost to the LAFD. Visit searchdogfoundation.org to learn more about this incredible program.

Your LAFD and surrounding Fire Departments will continue to train together for large-scale disasters, utilizing the tools and facilities provided by both tax payers and donations, to make sure our city is ready to respond when the disaster strikes here at home.