Early in the new millennium, our department recognized a need for a technical rescue team that would be trained and equipped to rescue individuals that are trapped and/or injured in very difficult or unusual situations. Examples of situations that may require the technical rescue team expertise would be trench collapse, building collapse, high angle rescue or any other rescue situation that is particularly dangerous or unusual.

The Portsmouth Fire Department received multiple grants which were used to purchase all of the tools and specialized equipment that the Technical Rescue Team would require. Once the equipment was received and team member training completed the Tech Rescue Team was placed in service. Currently the Technical Rescue Team personnel and equipment are housed in Fire Station # 4 located in Port Norfolk. 

When a call is received requiring the expertise of the Tech Rescue Team the personnel will respond with Technical Support Unit 1, which carries the specialized equipment necessary for difficult rescues.

Technical Rescue Team members have been trained and are certified by the State of Virginia in Confined Space Rescue, High Angle Rope Rescue, and Structural Collapse Operations.  Ongoing training and practice keep their skills sharp and keeps them up to date on the latest techniques and equipment.

The dedication and commitment of the members of the Tech Rescue Team is a reflection of our department’s commitment to protecting the citizens and visitors of the city of Portsmouth.