An Inclusive Model for the Urban Search and Rescue Teams (USAR)

The work performed by the urban search and rescue (USAR) teams is, from every standpoint, difficult to exactly define, since their main mission, which is to save lives, is joined by a series of tasks typical of disaster risk management, which makes them one of the most complex professions and therefore, with the strictest training requirements. Within these requirements, the fact is that USAR teams must be trained to serve a wide population diversity, which also involves the skills to manage critical situations where an inclusive approach is vital. To face this challenge, it is necessary to develop inclusive strategies according to the reality of these teams. In this article, the authors perform a deep analysis to the existing literature and by means of an exhaustive evaluation get to propose an inclusive model for the USAR teams. This model allows to define not only the reach of the inclusion term in these teams, but also helps to establish strategies to reformulate the training plans and programs of recruiting and retention of new members.