CAN-TF2 is one of six Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR) teams in Canada. 

The additional teams are located in Vancouver (CAN-TF1), Toronto (CAN-TF3), Manitoba (CAN-TF4), Halifax (CAN-TF5), and Montreal (CAN-TF6). Collectively, these teams lead Canada's emergency response initiative in Urban Search and Rescue (USAR).

USAR Task Forces locate trapped persons in collapsed structures and other entrapments using specially trained dogs and electronic search equipment.  The Task Forces breach, shore, lift and remove structural components, use heavy construction equipment to remove debris, and medically treat and transfer victims.

As a USAR team, CAN-TF2 responds with up to 75 specialized team members within 4 hours, via ground or air, and operates 24 hours a day for up to 14 days with the specialized equipment to be fully self-sustaining. 

Elements of a USAR team include:

• Search (Canine and Technical Search)

• Rescue (Structural Collapse, Rope Rescue, Confined Space Rescue)

• Medical (Treatment for victims and rescuers)

• Technical (Engineers, HazMat, and other specialties)

• Logistics (Providing for the needs of the team - equipment and facilities))

• Command (An organized structure to manage the objective of the incident)