NVFC Representative Attends International RESCUE Training Exercise

June 16, 2026

National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) Rhode Island director and past chair Kevin D. Quinn recently attended RESCUE 2026 in Calabria, Italy. The event, which took place from May 29 to June 1, brought together around 200 responders to perform complex operational scenarios designed to test preparedness, interoperability, and international cooperation.

Eleven international teams from 10 countries and 12 Italian teams participated in the event. The exercise was conducted in accordance with International Search and Rescue Advisory Group principles and guidelines, promoting internationally recognized standards and coordination procedures in urban search and rescue operations.

Field activities included:

• USAR operations following a simulated structural collapse in Torre di Ruggiero
• Search and rescue in difficult terrain, including K9 units and rope rescue techniques, after a simulated aircraft accident in Badolato Borgo
• Vertical rescue operations from a 30-meter-deep well in Soverato

“It was an honor to be part of this exercise that brought together the international response community in a show of cooperation and preparedness, which are key factors when major emergencies strike,” said Quinn. “I thank our hosts and all who participated to make this international collaboration possible.”