Yesterday, a team of 77 UK search and rescue specialists along with 4 search dogs and rescue equipment arrived in Gaziantep, Turkey to assist in the on-going rescue operations.
More than 8,000 people have been declared dead with tens of thousands injured by two earthquakes that rocked Turkey and Syria last Monday. Nations all around the world rushed to aid and assist in the rescue operations for survivors.
The UK government said that it immediately responded by providing support as requested by the Turkish government. The government also assured that it was continuously monitoring the situation and was also ready to provide long-term assistance.
As per a report, the UK International Search and Rescue team consist of firefighters and staff from 14 fire and rescue services across UK, including experts from England, Scotland and Wales. The team is also carrying specialist search equipment such as seismic listening devices, concrete cutting and breaking equipment and propping and shoring tools. These state-of-the-art heavy-duty equipment will allow them to cut their way into buildings and locate survivors in the rubble, saving vital time. The rescue team also carries food, water, shelter, sanitation, communications and all other necessary equipment to carry out unhindered search and rescue operations.
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan declared a 7-day mourning period until February 12 on Monday following the catastrophe. In solidarity with the Turkish people, the British Embassy in Ankara and Consulates across Turkey have also lowered their flags to half-mast until February 12.
As per another report, the UK-funded White Helmets have been carrying out significant search and rescue operations in north-west Syria.
