Lithuanian search and rescue team and humanitarian aid on their way to earthquake-hit Turkey
On February 9, a Lithuanian search and rescue team departs for earthquake-hit Turkey. The team consists of 42 members, including 34 firefighters, 5 paramedics from Kaunas Ambulance Station and 3 dog handlers from the State Border Guard Service. A humanitarian aid batch is also to be sent to Turkey with essential supplies for the victims.
“The scale of the disaster in Turkey calls for action from the international community, and Lithuania has responded to Turkey’s request for assistance by sending a team of specialists to contribute to the urgent search and rescue efforts and to help the victims. The team is equipped with vital items, medicines and equipment, which are urgently needed at this time for those who have lost their homes and are in need of basic necessities. During a crisis, when every hour counts, our institutions have responded quickly and mobilised humanitarian aid immediately, and I thank everyone involved,” said Chancellor of the Government Giedrė Balčytytė.
The deployment of the international relief team to Turkey as well as allocation of humanitarian aid was approved by the Government at a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
“Our firefighters have the necessary skills and can help people in need. This team is made up of the best of the best,” said Saulius Greičius, Director of the Fire and Rescue Department. “The team will have two weeks for their work in Turkey. On behalf of the entire firefighting community, I wish them strength in their responsible and highly demanding task. Stay safe while helping others.”
“The team is ready to face any challenge,” said Gediminas Šukšta, Chief of the International Relief Team and Head of the Forces Management Division of the Fire and Rescue Department. “They have taken part in international exercises to improve their skills in rescuing people from ruins on multiple occasions. We carry with us the equipment for search and rescue in ruins: drills, saws, seismological equipment, search cameras and more.”
Once the team has landed in Turkey, the Turkish rescue services will direct them to the rescue site.
In the immediate future, 90 tents, 50 electric heaters, 1,000 bedding sets, 1,000 pillows and 7,700 blankets from the state reserve will also be delivered to Turkey.
The total material value of the humanitarian aid to be sent to Turkey approved by the Government amounts to EUR 528,000.
The Lithuanian international relief team, that has departed for Turkey, was certified by INSARAG almost 12 years ago. It was recertified in 2016. The team participates in international rescue and humanitarian relief operations.