UK ISAR hosted an international specialist training course in Merseyside in August, bringing together experienced urban search and rescue (USAR) professionals from around the world.
The International Advanced Timber Shoring Course was held at the National Resilience Centre of Excellence, in Merseyside, welcomed experienced timber shoring technicians from Ecuador, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, China, Italy, Pakistan, the Netherlands and Colombia.
Timber shoring is a specialist rescue skill used to stabilise damaged or collapsed structures, helping to create safer working conditions for emergency responders and supporting rescue operations in complex environments.
The week-long course provided an opportunity for international USAR teams to share their knowledge and operational experience, while developing advanced timber shoring techniques and exploring different approaches to working safely in challenging environments.
Bringing together specialists from nine countries also provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, share best practice and learn from the different experiences of teams operating in diverse environments around the world.
As part of the programme, delegates visited Aintree Fire Station, where they were able to learn more about Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, its teams and its operational capabilities.
The course highlighted the importance of international collaboration in developing specialist search and rescue skills. By bringing experienced practitioners together, UK ISAR continues to support the exchange of knowledge and strengthen relationships with partner teams around the world.
The event also reinforced the role of the National Resilience Centre of Excellence as a place where emergency responders can come together to develop specialist skills, share experience and build capability for future search and rescue operations.
