Van Underwater Search and Rescue Team on 24/7 Standby

The Underwater Search and Rescue Team within the Van Fire Department remains on 24/7 standby to respond to emergencies in Lake Van and surrounding rivers and ponds. The eight-member professional team is equipped to handle various scenarios, including drowning incidents, searches for missing persons, the recovery of vehicles that have fallen into the water, and responding to boat fires or accidents on Lake Van.

To maintain high readiness, the team conducts regular training sessions involving diving techniques, search and rescue methods, and physical conditioning. These exercises are performed under challenging climate and water conditions to ensure rapid response capabilities.

During operations, the team coordinates closely with partner institutions, including AFAD, the police, and the gendarmerie, to ensure field safety and effective rescue processes. Fire Department Inspection and Prevention Branch Manager Abdusellam Erdoğan emphasized that regular training is conducted to ensure the fastest possible intervention for both surface and underwater incidents.