| Dealing with emergency incidents, where a fast response could mean the difference between life and death, means having the right equipment for the job.
Today, thanks to a generous donation from the Order of St John charity, the unit took possession of a new Mercedes van which has been kitted out with everything they need — special radios, search lights, a winch and a stretcher.
Superintendent Iain Bell, the force’s search and rescue co-ordinator, said, “The team can be called upon to help find missing people in all parts of Tayside, not just mountainous areas.
“Every member brings with them valuable local knowledge and a wealth of experience in search and rescue techniques. We can be in remote areas for long periods of time. This new van will provide an ideal base.”
He thanked the order for their donation and said it would be a valuable asset not only in future operations, but also in regular training exercises.
Handing over the keys, Mr James Stirling, a spokesman for the order, said, “As part of our national project to extend support to mountain rescue teams in Scotland, we are funding vehicles for every team.”
The Order of St John traces its origins back more than 900 years to a hospital set up in Jerusalem to care for sick pilgrims. It is best known for founding the St John Ambulance. |
