Civil Defence members undergo earthquake training (pics)

The rescue unit of Larnaca’s civil defence team participated in a two-day simulation exercise this weekend on preparedness in the event of an earthquake, the third in the past two months.

The exercises gave all the members of the team the opportunity to train in search and rescue under the international guidelines of Insarag (international search and rescue advisory group). They were evaluated by an observer from Germany, who specialises in Insarag issues.

Civil defence head Maria Papa congratulated participants, trainees and instructors and urged them to remain on alert to respond to emergencies.

Insarag is a global network of more than 90 countries and organisations under the United Nations umbrella. It deals with urban search and rescue (Usar) related issues, aiming to establish minimum international standards for Usar teams and methodology for international coordination in earthquake response based on the Insarag Guidelines.