Special Operations ensures that AFD’s specialty teams maintain their certification and training levels. It also purchases and maintains materials and equipment.
The Special Operations Division has evolved into a separate battalion (Battalion 6) within AFD Operations. It encompasses three special disciplines:
Water Rescue
Responds for dive rescues and recoveries, as well as assisting people who are caught by rapidly rising flood waters. AFD also has boats available for back-up response at three outlying stations.
Hazardous Materials Response
Responds to incidents involving hazardous materials. Team members are trained to deal with chemical spills, gas leaks and other situations involving hazardous materials.
Search and Rescue (Technical Rescue)
Responds to confined space, trench or high angle rescues that involve the use of ropes and rappelling techniques.