Serine
Kansas Task Force 1 has been deployed to Kerrville, Texas, to support disaster recovery efforts following severe flooding and heavy rainfall.
The deployment, which began on Saturday, includes 15 trained personnel, among them two members from the Chanute Fire Department.
Multi-Agency Collaboration Underway
This deployment represents a joint effort from seven Kansas agencies, including:
- Kansas Fire Marshal’s Office
- Kansas City Kansas Fire Department
- Olathe Fire Department
- Salina Fire Department
- Shawnee Kansas Fire Department
- Sedgwick Fire Department
These agencies came together under the Kansas Division of Emergency Management in response to a mutual aid request from Texas, initiated through an existing interstate disaster assistance agreement.
Capabilities of Kansas Task Force 1
Kansas Task Force 1 brings with it:
- Two Type 3 Swift-Water Search and Rescue Teams
- Hard-bottom inflatable boats for high-water operations
Their mission includes:
- Conducting search and rescue operations
- Providing basic medical care and life support
- Transporting people and animals to safe zones for air or ground evacuation
Support and Solidarity Requested
The Kansas Fire Marshal’s Office has encouraged the public to keep the deployed team in their thoughts and prayers as they carry out their essential work in the field.
Kansas Task Force 1’s deployment to Texas exemplifies how interstate emergency collaboration can provide rapid response in times of crisis.
With skilled professionals, specialized equipment, and a clear mission, the team is playing a vital role in supporting Texas communities affected by widespread flooding.