Israel Matzav: IDF search and rescue unit may be headed for Haiti

IDF search and rescue unit may be headed for Haiti

The IDF's search and rescue unit may be headed for earthquake-stricken Haiti to help in the relief efforts there.

The IDF National Search and Rescue Unit, under the Home Front Command, is a highly skilled force trained to execute special search and rescue missions, both in Israel and abroad. The unit was founded in 1983, and its’ expertise is in rescuing people trapped under ruins.

The unit is comprised primarily of reservists who are always on call, with prepared kits to enable immediate departure, and a small core of soldiers in mandatory service. In addition to the rescue teams, the unit employs doctors, engineers, mechanical engineering equipment operators and rescue dog handlers.

There are pictures of the IDF search and rescue unit in action here.

Israel Matzav: IDF search and rescue unit may be headed for Haiti