In the event of a large-scale disaster, Canada Task Force 2 (CAN-TF2) becomes a vital link in a multi-agency rescue effort; combining resources with other agencies, such as police, fire, EMS, public utilities and the military.

Team members are trained in the following areas:

• Incident command
• Logistics
• Communications
• Medical
• Hazardous Materials / CBRN
• Technical Search
• Canine Search and Rescue
• Technical rescue — including rope rescue, trench and excavation, mechanical entrapment, confined space and structural collapse

CAN-TF2 is trained to complete a quick and thorough triage assessment of a damaged structure. This assessment determines the structural integrity before initializing a search for survivors. Within Alberta, the STARS helicopter is an integral part of the team — providing a bird’s eye view of the disaster site, executing reconnaissance with team leaders and the rapid transport of search personnel and equipment.

Canada Task Force 2 can be deployed anywhere in Canada, at any time, in any weather conditions. The teams are ready and en-route within a matter of hours.