AssetID: 53055377
Headline: RAW VIDEO: Welsh Firefighters Conduct Daring Donkey Rescue During Morocco Earthquake Relief Efforts
Caption: Welsh firefighters conducted an unusual rescue mission as part of the UK International Search and Rescue Team (UK-ISAR) responding to the devastating earthquake that struck Morocco on 8 September. On 15 September, a full week after the earthquake hit, they saved a donkey who was trapped in rubble in a remote village in the Atlas mountains. After a thorough assessment by a UK-ISAR structural engineer, a safe and effective plan was put in place, and the dedicated team toiled tirelessly to gain access to the entombed donkey. Once successfully rescued, the donkey received a thorough examination by a local veterinarian. The rescue is important for locals, as in these remote villages a donkey serves as a vital lifeline, enabling the transportation of essential goods between communities. The donkey's owner expressed profound gratitude, as the animal holds immense significance for him and his family. Without the necessary skills and equipment, he would have been unable to carry out the rescue alone. The UK-ISAR, also known as the UK International Search and Rescue Team, was dispatched to Morocco to assist with the response efforts following the devastating earthquake that claimed more than 2,000 lives. Among the 62-strong team currently on the ground, two Welsh ISAR teams have been actively contributing to the rescue and support operations. The Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) has four members on the ground: Head of Southern Division Steve Davies, Watch Manager Kevin Morgan from Earlswood Training Facility, Watch Manager Stephen Fuge from Gorseinon Station, and Firefighter Derek Lewis from Neath Station. Additionally, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) has two representatives, Firefighter Alex Bland from Malpas Station and Firefighter Rob Buckley from Ely Station. Speaking from Morocco, Davies shared, "We've encountered very challenging conditions and had to travel long distances. After liaising with the local team, we're journeying two to three hours to reach a remote village, overcoming obstacles along the way in our quest to facilitate rescues. Our search and rescue mission will persist until the local authorities determine that the rescue phase is complete. Currently, our top priority is locating individuals who can still be saved." Each deployed UK-ISAR team is self-sufficient upon arrival, providing their own food, water, shelter, sanitation, communication, and all necessary equipment for search and rescue operations lasting up to 14 days. This is done to ensure that no additional strain is placed on a nation already grappling with resource demands in the wake of a sudden catastrophe.
Keywords: morocco,earthquake,disaster relief,wales,firefighters,feature,video,photo
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