Rescue training strengthens partnership, saves lives
Channel: Maryland Guard
Date: 31/07/2015

The Maryland Army National Guard and the Maryland Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team conducted swift water rescue training July 29, 2015, at Essex Skypark, Essex Md. The HART training is performed quarterly, and prepares responders for emergency situations such as hurricanes and floods. 

The MD-HART multi mission capability includes vehicle rescue in swift water/flood zones, structure rescue through window/door/balcony insertion, and structure rescue rooftop/breaching/confined areas in flood zones, mountain/wilderness extrications, tree rescue/extrication, open/inland/swift water rescue, and mass rescue capability, all delivered through hoist and short-haul capable helicopters. 

They are also trained to deliver hazard risk assessments and resource allocation while having trained eyes on the disaster site. In 2010, the MD-HART Team was awarded the highly acclaimed “Higgins and Langley International Swift water/Flood Rescue Award” for program and team development. The MD-HART program has also been observed and used as a model for the development of helicopter rescue response programs in other states. (Video by Pfc. Patrick M. Rooney, 29th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)