Civil Aid Service
The Civil Aid Service (CAS) is a civil organisation that assists in a variety of auxiliary emergency roles, including search and rescue operations in Hong Kong. CAS is funded by the Hong Kong Government and its members wear uniforms. History. Formed in 1952 under the British colonial government of Hong Kong (CAS Ordinance) and modelled after Civil Aid agencies in the United Kingdom. As well, a youth section, CAS Cadet Corps, adds 3,232 volunteers to the regular 3,634 force. The concept was introduced during British rule, an organisation also found in Britain. A dedicated Civil Aid Service  rescue training centre, with indoor and outdoor training areas, was opened by the governor on 15 November 1953 at Hawthorn Road, Happy Valley. The CAS used to be headquartered at Caroline Hill Road in Causeway Bay. It moved to Yau Ma Tei in 2006. The six-storey former CAS Headquarters is slated for demolition by the government. Duties. The stated duties of the Service are: Organisation. CAS are headed by the Commissioner and CAS (Department) by Chief Staff Officer (also Deputy Commissioner). Rank. Rank Below IV are called "Other Rank Members" Fleet. CAS Vehicles is managed by Transport Company. There  are various types of vehicles in service for different uses including: Mountain Search and Rescue Company. The Mountain Search and Rescue Company (民安隊山嶺搜救中隊) or CAS MSaR consists of two search and rescue teams specializing in mountain terrain within Hong Kong (mainly in the New Territories). MSaR team is made up of auxiliary members of CAS. Formed in 1967, it has a combined total of 246 members. MSaR works with Hong Kong Fire Services and Government Flying Service (air support) when deployed to incidents. Crest. The current crest of the force was adopted in 1997 to replace most of the British  colonial symbols: Source: