At the invitation of I.S.A.R. Germany, 28 specialists from six countries are currently practising TCRH in Mosbach in Baden-Württemberg. At the workshop, they are training in the coordination and management of international rescue operations following major earthquakes. The course was organised by the Urban Search and Rescue units from Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Luxembourg. Support came from the USAR.NL team. Specialists from England and Israel also attended the course. During the course, they deepened their knowledge of the United Nations' rules of engagement.
Among other things, the training involves setting up a Reception and Departure Centre (RDC). This is set up at the airport of the affected country in the event of an emergency and is responsible for coordinating the arriving aid teams from all over the world and working closely with the country's authorities. As a rule, the international aid team that arrives first is responsible for setting up the RDC.
This also applies to the Urban Search and Rescue Coordination Cell (UCC). This is part of the OSOCC, the United Nations coordination centre in a disaster area. The UCC supports and coordinates the international search and rescue teams in the country of operation.
During the course, participants also practise assessing damage sites and estimating the need for assistance. The training centre in Mosbach offers ideal conditions for this.