South Carolina search and rescue task force heads to Texas to help with recovery efforts from flooding

Caryn Little,

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster has authorized the deployment of South Carolina Task Force 1 (SC-TF1), the state’s Urban Search and Rescue team, to assist with response and recovery efforts following severe flooding in Texas. SC-TF1 is deploying a Canine (K-9) Search and Rescue Mission Ready Package, which includes five personnel and two human remains detection K-9s.

The deployment comes at the direct request of Texas Governor Greg Abbott during a Monday phone call with Governor McMaster. The mission is coordinated through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), the national mutual aid system that facilitates state-to-state disaster assistance.

β€œTeam South Carolina stands ready to offer any support we can,” said Governor McMaster. β€œIn some of our toughest moments, the people of Texas were there for us. Now, it’s our duty to return that support and stand by our friends in their time of need.”

The mission is made possible through a partnership with South Carolina Foothills Search & Rescue, a K-9 Search and Rescue organization based in Greenville, South Carolina. All personnel and K-9s have undergone rigorous training and certification to meet national standards for disaster response.

β€œThe deployment of SC-TF1 reflects South Carolina’s continued commitment to supporting disaster response efforts nationwide when called upon,” said Chad Beam, Assistant Chief of Emergency Response for South Carolina State Fire. “The team remains in close coordination with national and state emergency management officials, standing ready to assist wherever needed.”

South Carolina Emergency Management Division Director Kim Stenson emphasized the state’s longstanding commitment to supporting national disaster response efforts.

β€œSouth Carolina has a strong history of supporting our fellow states through EMAC,” said Director Stenson. β€œOver the years, we’ve helped coordinate assistance for incidents in Kentucky, Florida, California, Alaska, and now Texas. Our emergency response community stands ready and capable of answering the call when help is needed.”

For more information on SC-Task Force 1: https://statefire.llr.sc.gov/ertf/pdf/USandR.pdf