Portland Fire & Rescue Deploys Specialty Rescue Team to Support Akawa Butte Fire

The Rapid Extrication Module Support (REMS) team provides a critical safety resource for firefighters working on the fireline. REMS teams are specifically trained and equipped to locate, treat, package, and safely transport injured or ill wildland firefighters from remote and challenging terrain to definitive medical care. Their specialized capabilities provide incident managers with a rapid response option when firefighters become injured or incapacitated.

PF&R's four-person REMS team is trained in high-angle rope rescue, vehicle extrication, and advanced prehospital emergency medical care. The team carries specialized rope rescue, technical rescue, extraction, and advanced life support medical equipment, allowing them to reach and extricate injured firefighters in some of the most difficult and inaccessible environments.

Before departing, Crew Boss Lieutenant Eric Dryer shared his thoughts on the assignment.

"I'm excited and nervous all at the same time. This is a great opportunity for us to support our partners and help protect the firefighters working on the front lines."

The team departed this morning with two four-wheel-drive pickup trucks, one utility side-by-side vehicle, and a support trailer. They will remain assigned to the incident for the duration of their deployment, providing specialized rescue capabilities in support of wildfire suppression operations.

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