Lithuanian search and rescue team alongside humanitarian aid are on their way to earthquake-hit Turkey
A Lithuanian search and rescue team is leaving for earthquake-hit Turkey. The team consists of 42 members, including 34 firefighters, 5 paramedics from Kaunas and 3 cynologists from the State Border Guard Service. Humanitarian aid is also being sent to Turkey with essential supplies for the victims.
"The scale of the disaster in Turkey calls for solidarity from the international community, and Lithuania has responded to Turkey's request for assistance by sending a mixed team of specialists to contribute to the urgent search and rescue work in order to help the victims. This team will also bring vital items, such as medicines and equipment, which are particularly needed at this time for those who have lost their homes and are in need of basic necessities. In a crisis where every hour counts, our institutions have responded quickly and mobilised humanitarian aid smoothly, and I thank everyone involved," said the Chancellor of the Government, Giedrė Balčytytė.
The deployment of the international relief team to Turkey and the allocation of humanitarian aid was approved at a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
"Our firefighters have the necessary skills and can help people in need. This team is made up of the best of the best," said Saulius Greičius, Director of the Fire and Rescue Department. On behalf of the entire firefighting community, I wish them strength in their responsible and highly resilient work. Stay safe while helping others."
"The team members are ready to face any challenge," said Gediminas Šukšta, Commander of the International Assistance Team, Chief of the Force Management Board of the Fire and Rescue Department. - They have repeatedly taken part in international exercises to improve their skills in rescuing people from ruins. We carry with us equipment for search and rescue in ruins - drills, saws, seismological equipment, search cameras and more."
Once the team has landed in Turkey, the Turkish rescue services will direct them to the rescue site.
In the near future, 90 tents, 50 electric heaters, 1 000 bedding sets, 1 000 pillows, 7 700 blankets and medical supplies will be delivered to Turkey from our national reserve.
The total material value of the humanitarian aid approved at the Government meeting and allocated to Turkey amounts to EUR 528 000. The National Crisis Management Centre played an inter-institutional coordination role in mobilising the assistance.
12 years ago The Lithuanian international assistance team has been INSARAG certified. It was recertified in 2016 (certificate renewal).