Disasters are events that can cause significant loss of life and property and deeply affect the social and economic structure of societies. The process of saving lives, minimizing damages, and returning to normal life quickly in the face of such events is only possible through effective disaster and emergency management. In this context, search and rescue teams play a critical role in disaster and emergency management. The earthquakes that occurred in Turkey on February 6, 2023, once again highlighted the importance of these teams.
The February 6 Earthquakes and Search and Rescue Operations
On February 6, 2023, two earthquakes of magnitude 7.7 and 7.6 struck the Kahramanmaraş province of Turkey, causing widespread destruction across a vast region. These earthquakes affected more than 10 provinces, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and leaving hundreds of thousands homeless. In the face of such a massive disaster, the swift organization of search and rescue teams was crucial in reaching those trapped under the rubble and saving lives.
Search and rescue operations launched after the earthquake were carried out on a large scale, with contributions from both local and international teams. These efforts, coordinated by AFAD (Disaster and Emergency Management Authority), highlighted the importance of having well-trained and equipped search and rescue teams in Turkey. Teams from AFAD, the Gendarmerie Search and Rescue (JAK), Fire Departments, National Medical Rescue Teams (UMKE), and civil society organizations worked tirelessly under difficult conditions to rescue people from the debris.
The Importance of Search and Rescue Teams in AFAD and Municipalities
The February 6 earthquakes once again brought to light the responsibilities of local governments in disaster management. In this context, decisions and obligations imposed on municipalities by AFAD aim to strengthen the role of local governments in disaster management.
AFAD has mandated that municipalities establish their own search and rescue teams. This decision is intended to ensure a rapid and effective local response in the aftermath of a disaster. These municipal teams will be among the first to arrive at the scene during a disaster, contributing to the swift rescue of those trapped under the rubble and minimizing potential loss of life.
AFAD’s decision not only encourages local governments to take a more active and responsible role in disaster management but also requires these teams to receive regular training and participate in drills. This approach aims to ensure that not only the central government but also local authorities can act efficiently during disasters, leading to more organized search and rescue operations.
Conclusion
Search and rescue teams are one of the most critical elements of disaster and emergency management. The February 6, 2023 earthquakes in Turkey once again highlighted the importance of these teams and the necessity of organizing effectively at the local level. AFAD's mandate for municipalities to establish search and rescue teams is a crucial step aimed at increasing local governments' preparedness for disasters. Such regulations and practices will help minimize casualties in future disasters and strengthen the community's resilience against them.
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