TRU members secured a collapsed basement

02.December 2024 hendrik Saturday brought volunteer rescuers from the Technical Rescue Unit to Läänemaa for a drill.

On Saturday afternoon, members of Päästeliit's (Estonian Rescue Association) Technical Rescue Unit (TRU) gathered in Läänemaa for a rubble rescue exercise. The main objective was to learn how to secure the basement of an apartment building so that it could be used as a shelter for the protection of the local population.

In the course of the exercise, the volunteer rescuers built supports in the basement of a classic Soviet-era apartment building, which provide additional strength to the basement structure in the event of a collapse. Similar technology is used, for example, in collapse-prone buildings where rescue work is required.

According to the head of the technical rescue unit, Risto Roomet, in addition to building supports, teamwork was also practiced. The later time was chosen to add to the complexity of the task because of the darkness and the lack of electricity in the building.

The team was able to accomplish the objective, but there were some shortcomings in equipment and techniques that would need more attention in the future, Roomet said.

TRU member Silver Loderaud said the exercise was important for the development of volunteers: "What made the exercise exciting for me was working in the dark, where it is more difficult to operate and to spot the different dangers. Because we successfully completed the exercise in the dark, I am convinced that we can help people at any time and in any situation."

Päästeliit will continue to organise training for volunteers, contributing to the protection of the population and the sense of security of Estonian communities.

Estonian Rescue Association (Päästeliit) unites and represents voluntary rescue associations in Estonia. Last year, the association created a nationwide technical rescue unit, whose aim is to alleviate human suffering in the midst of crises and disasters by supporting communities, local authorities and the state.

More photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBTwqK
Photo authors: Hendrik Tali / Kermo Pastarus - Päästeliit.