Fire Department

Urban Search and Rescue Apparatus

The Vernon Fire Dept. Urban Search And Rescue (USAR) team was formed to facilitate rescues for any man made or natural disaster. The Vernon Firefighters tasked with carrying out this mission (USAR Team) have undergone a minimum of 240 hours of specialized rescue training in; building collapse, rope rescue, confined space rescue, trench collapse, swift water rescue as well as rapid intervention tactics which are essential to rescuing a down or trapped firefighter .

We also carry specialized equipment for each of these rescue disciplines. some of this includes; 2 state of the art search cameras, a thermal imaging camera , 2 air monitors, jaws of life, concrete cutting chainsaw, jackhammers, rope rescue equipment, swift water rescue equipment, and normal firefighting gear. The apparatus is a 2000 J41 rescue apparatus with a custom Spartan cab and chassis. It's power comes from a 350 horsepower Cummins ISC diesel engine. Mounted outside the unit is a 8000 lb winch, fixed and portable lighting, and two portable generators.

With this training and equipment, the California state Office of Emergency Services (OES) has awarded us a rescue rating of "Heavy", meaning we have the highest rescue rating the state can award. Our Department also has constructed and maintains a state certified rescue systems 1, and confined space rescue training facility.