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First Response Team of America Aids Fire Departments

Published Date: 02.23.2011

In 2007, after running a company that provided contractual clean-up services months after a natural disaster, Tad Agoglia formed the nonprofit First Response Team of America. The First Response Team arrives in the immediate wake of a catastrophe with specialized equipment and personnel experienced in responding to disasters to help local first responders open critical roadways blocked by debris and with other critical tasks to make way for rescue and recovery.

Working side by side with first responders nationwide, the Team has responded to more than 30 tornadoes, floods, windstorms, wildfires, hurricanes, earthquakes, and ice storms across the country. At the disaster sites, the Team most often joins forces with local volunteer firefighters to aid in immediate relief efforts and reduce the time it takes to reach those in need. In some cases, the Team may be able to loan recently acquired equipment to local fire officials if theirs has been damaged during the disaster.

By studying weather patterns and communicating with meteorologists from NBC and The Weather Channel, the First Response Team is able to anticipate when and where the next disaster is expected to hit. They pre-position as near as safely possible. When alerted, the Team immediately deploys with its fleet of specialized trucks and equipment to remove obstacles, power medical or emergency operations centers, establish communications, perform water rescues, provide emergency lighting, and do whatever is necessary in close cooperation with local officials to help restore order and build optimism.

All First Response Team of America services are provided free of charge. Departments can contact the Team via email at inquiries@firstresponseteam.org or visit www.firstresponseteam.org to learn more.

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