Volunteer team to help in missing people search
HFR Solutions CICA voluntary search and rescue team has been launched to help find vulnerable, missing people across East Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire.
Humberside Search and Rescue (HUMBSAR) volunteers will support police-led searches and emergency response operations, bosses said.
The team, which is still being recruited, will be based at Humberside Fire and Rescue Service's headquarters in Hessle, East Yorkshire.
Nick Granger, chief executive of HFR Solutions CIC, which has teamed up with Humberside Police to launch the venture, said: "By bringing together skilled volunteers and the emergency services, we are strengthening our collective ability to support vulnerable people when it matters most."
After receiving training, volunteers will be alerted to incidents using a mobile phone app. They will keep in touch with police via issued radios.
Initially, 50 volunteers will be recruited to help police in searches across built-up areas, countryside, woodland and around bodies of water.
The team may recruit a further 50 volunteers next year, officials said.
Granger added: "Our ambition is to deliver a reliable 24/7, 365-days-a-year capability that supports the police and protects our communities whenever the need arises.
"This initiative is about partnership, professionalism and community. We are incredibly proud to be working alongside Humberside Police to create something that will make a genuine difference across our region."
'Vital role'
According to the charity Missing People, 160,000 people are reported missing in the UK each year.
Chantal Korcz, the charity's spokesperson, said: "We are delighted to see HUMBSAR being established by HFR Solutions CIC in partnership with Humberside Police.
"We have worked alongside lowland rescue teams across the UK and appreciate the vital role that professionally trained volunteer search teams play in helping to locate vulnerable missing people safely and quickly.
"Being able to deploy a service like this is essential in reducing harm, safeguarding vulnerable people, and ensuring individuals can access the right support as soon as possible."
Further information about volunteering roles with HUMBSAR can be found here.
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