Strike Team Assists Marco Fire/Rescue After Hurricane Ian

Residents of Marco Island may have seen a number of unfamiliar vehicles responding to emergency calls since Hurricane Ian struck the island last week. The presence of fire/rescue personnel from other communities is part of a plan devised by Florida Fire Professionals to assist other communities who have experienced some type of natural disaster or other event.

Marco Island saw a similar response from law enforcement agencies from throughout Florida after the island was struck by Hurricane Irma five years ago. 

One of the nation’s top Urban Search and Rescue Teams from Miami/Dade Fire Rescue was similarly deployed into Lee County due to the disastrous effects from Hurricane Ian. Marco Island has received similar assistance from a Strike Team from East Coast Fire Departments from Coral Gables Fire/Rescue and Miami Beach Fire/Rescue. A total of eight firefighter/paramedics were sent as part of the deployment to Marco Island.

These teams will be found throughout Southwest Florida for the next week to assist in responses to increased call volume.

“It’s been wonderful having these folks here during this time.  The exchange of knowledge and ideas is something we can’t put a price on,” said Captain Christopher Bowden.

Marco Island personnel have also been deployed to assist in similar situations over the years.

“Our department and our community benefit greatly from a program such as this. The Strike Teams have been in place for a number of years now and the benefit they bring to each community can’t have a price tag put on it,” said Fire/Rescue Chief Chis Byrne.