Mountain Rescue (MR) was the first department created within HRT, aiming to provide help in search and rescue operations in mountain areas.
We have specialized equipment to intervene effectively in mountain accidents and incidents, even in the most remote and inaccessible areas.
We often cooperate with: The Special Unit for Disaster Management, The Military Air Force and Land Air Force
In addition, we collaborate with International mountain rescue teams and organize avalanche training seminars with international certification from the French organization Anena.
Finally, HRT is the only rescue team in Greece that is a member of ICAR (International Commission for Alpine Rescue).
This department (USAR) contributes to search and rescue operations following natural disasters such as earthquakes, fires, floods, and extreme weather phenomena. Volunteer members of this department have participated in major missions both in Greece and abroad, the latest including the earthquake in Turkey in February 2023 and the floods in Thessaly, Greece, in September 2023.
These volunteers receive specialized training to operate in both urban and non-urban environments under extremely adverse conditions. They often organize practical drills in cooperation with the Fire Department, the Special Unit for Disaster Management, various municipalities, and other volunteer organizations.
In recent years, our volunteers have also been trained in the use of innovative technological search and rescue equipment as part of European research programs.
The Water Search and Rescue Department (WSR) operates in search and rescue operations in seas, rivers, lakes, and areas affected by floods. The department consists of: Motorboat operators, Lifeguards, Fast current rescuers, Divers, Open sea sailing skippers It utilizes 24 fully equipped rescue boats stationed across several HRT branches throughout Greece. The department is also equipped with diving gear and whitewater (rapids) rescue equipment.
Volunteers in this department are constantly trained in cooperation with the Lifeguards, Military Air Force, and Civil Protection Service. They also participate in mutual training exercises and drills with international water rescue organizations, such as: The Norwegian RS, The British RNLI, The Swedish SSRS, The German DGzRS, The Dutch KNRM.
HRT is the only organization in Greece that is a member of the IMRF (International Maritime Rescue Federation).
The First Aid Department (FAD) aims to train both its volunteers and civilians. Certified First Aid instructors conduct specialized seminars with international certification, preparing members to participate effectively in rescue operations.
Additionally, great emphasis is placed on prevention and public awareness. The department organizes frequent seminars with private companies, corporations, and the public sector, as well as schools. We also hold open public meetings and participate in providing First Aid during sports and cultural events.
The department is comprised of certified First Aid instructors and covers First Aid provision in all types of missions and operations.
The Research, Technology, and Telecommunication Department supports all search and rescue operations in terms of communication. It manages all telecommunication and information technology needs, while also focusing on the introduction of new technology and the design and development of innovative applications.
It also handles the improvement of the organization’s current electronic and information systems.
Specifically, the department is responsible for:
1. The management and training of its members
2. Training volunteers on the use of radio communication
3. The coordination, design, and maintenance of all telecommunication equipment and the HRT network
This department (SRD) was created to locate and rescue trapped people as a result of devastating earthquakes or avalanches.
Its volunteer members, together with their highly trained canines, participate in mass destruction exercise drills and are also deployed on real missions, such as during the earthquakes in Algeria and Turkey.
The Search and Rescue Dog Department currently has 11 search dogs available to operate with their handlers during search and rescue missions and training exercises. They are always ready to provide help in crisis situations.
HRT is the only Greek organization that is a member of the International Search and Rescue Dog Organization (IRO).
This department (HSC) supports and provides aid to families in need, mainly supplying them with food and essentials during emergencies.
It also focuses on the collection, transport and distribution of humanitarian aid to populations affected by natural disasters and major crises.
It also organises campaigns and activities for citizens and schoolchildren, promoting solidarity and the spirit of volunteering.
Fire doesn’t wait.
Neither do we.
You don’t have to put out the fire yourself. Your support is enough for us to do it.
