Who We Are
The Ohio Region 3 Urban Seach and Rescue (USAR) Team serves two distinct roles within West Central Ohio. First, we are designated as the Ohio Homeland Security Regional Collapse Search and Rescue team as well as the Regional Swift Water team. Secondly, with the independent support from each of our 8 counties, we serve as the region’s technical rescue team with the ability to respond to and support technical rescue emergency operations throughout the region. Members of the team live or work within the 8 counties we serve and represent various emergency service agencies.
The team meets these responsibilities by utilizing a wide variety of specially trained rescuers as well as specialized technical rescue equipment. Personnel and equipment are strategically located throughout the region to provide the timeliest response to the scene of a technical rescue emergency.
This is a specialized technical rescue team and previous rescue experience is required.
How to Become a Team Member
Thank you for your interest in the Ohio Region 3 Urban Seach and Rescue (USAR).
Team applicants may be subject to an interview and drug screening as well as a background check. Selection will be based upon experience and qualifications as well as the current needs of the Team. Once a selection is made, Team members will be cross trained in all areas of search and rescue. This flexibility is an integral part of the team’s success.
Applicants must understand that upon selection, they will be required to attend training sessions, simulated deployments, and occasional work details to maintain an active status with the Team. Members who fail to maintain an active status within the Team may be subject to removal. Additionally, all applicants must remain “fit for duty” with their sponsoring agency.
Applicants must be employed by a public government entity within the eight-county response area or have specialized training in lieu of employment requirement. Applicants must hold a valid Ohio Driver’s license and proof of insurance. Each application must be signed by the Chief of the applicant’s sponsoring agency or the applicant’s work supervisor if not emergency service affiliated, before it will be accepted. Sponsoring Agencies must participate in the States BWC program when sponsoring a team member.
If you are interested in more information about the Team, please direct all questions to:
Michael Guadagno, Coordinator/Strike Team Leader
Moraine Fire Department, Deputy Fire Chief
4200 Dryden Road, Moraine, Ohio 45439
(937) 535-1141 office
