The County of Los Angeles Fire Department’s Urban Search and Rescue team, known internationally as USA-2 has been activated by the U.S. Department of State to respond to Jamaica in wake of Hurricane Melissa. USA-2 is comprised of 34 members, 4 canines and 42,000 pounds of equipment. They are joining the Fairfax County Fire Department’s USAR team, USA-1, to provide search, rescue and recovery assistance. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all affected by the devastation left by Hurricane Melissa.

11K views · 162 reactions | This video is a few years old, but the information is still relevant. Here's a look at some of the training our urban search and rescue (USAR) team members go through. Video courtesy Los Angeles County Annual Report. | Los Angeles County Fire Department | Facebook