Raleigh Fire Special Operations

A number of firefighters receive additional training and certifications to participate on the fire department’s hazardous materials team, technical rescue team, and urban search & rescue (USAR) task force. These firefighters also respond on regular calls, as members of their engine, ladder, or rescue company.

Hazardous Materials

The Raleigh Fire Department responds to hazardous materials (hazmat) incidents within the city. We also are contracted by Wake County to provide hazmat service countywide, and we operate as North Carolina Hazardous Materials Regional Response Team 4. They utilize state-funded resources, and can respond statewide.

Technical Rescue / Urban Search & Rescue

Our rescue unit is supplemented with squads and ladder companies designed as technical rescue resources. They’re trained and carry special equipment for a variety of unique rescue emergencies such as confined space, trench collapse, building collapse, high-angle, swift water, and land search.

The Raleigh Fire Department also participates in North Carolina Urban Search & Rescue Task Force 8, a regional rescue team comprised of members of the Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill fire departments, and Wake County EMS. Task Force 8 can be deployed statewide for major incidents, including tornados, hurricanes, and explosions.

Helicopter Rescue

The Raleigh Fire Department is a participating member of the North Carolina Helo Aquatic Rescue Team (NC HART). This team provides specially trained firefighters for rescue operations with military and law enforcement helicopters. Raleigh Helicopter Rescue Technicians fly with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.