# Turkish and TRNC search and rescue training expansion

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/turkish-and-trnc-search-and-rescue-training-expansion
> Updated: 2026-10-06T18:41:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Natural disaster search and rescue associations in Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) are expanding their training and operational capabilities.

In late September, members of the Natural Disaster Search and Rescue Association (DAAK) completed instructor training for rubble search and rescue organized by Ankara AFAD. This included the first participation of TRNC members in this specific program, with the association aiming to use these new instructors to train volunteers and improve disaster preparedness in the TRNC.

By early October, the Keşan Natural Disaster Search and Rescue Association (KEDAK) conducted field drills in forested terrain to test capabilities following AFAD accreditation. The simulation focused on locating missing persons in rugged environments, emphasizing that search and rescue efforts must extend beyond earthquake and rubble sites to include incidents involving people lost or stranded in nature.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-06: KEDAK conducts search and rescue drill in forested terrain

Following AFAD accreditation, KEDAK conducted a realistic search and rescue drill in forested terrain, simulating the recovery of two missing persons to improve coordination and GPS navigation skills.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kedak-conducts-search-and-rescue-drill-in-forested-terrain

### 2026-09-22: DAAK members complete search and rescue instructor training

Three members of the Natural Disaster Search and Rescue Association (DAAK) have become certified instructors following a specialized training program organized by Ankara AFAD.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/daak-members-complete-search-and-rescue-instructor-training

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Cite as: Turkish and TRNC search and rescue training expansion. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/turkish-and-trnc-search-and-rescue-training-expansion