Texas Task Force 1 demobilizes after completing 13 missions in Joplin, Mo.

COLLEGE STATION – Texas Task Force 1 (TX-TF1) specialty rescue teams have been demobilized by the State of Missouri. The task force members were mobilized on Wednesday afternoon to assist local jurisdictions in search and recovery efforts after severe weather and an EF-5 tornado devastated the city of Joplin, Mo., on Sunday, May 22.

The team was comprised of 8 members and 3 canines. During their deployment, the team participated in 13 search missions, and searched several miles and significant areas of interest such as apartment buildings, nursing homes and residential areas. The ESF-9 coordination center was also able to assist the local incident command team with aerial photos and search grid maps created by the State of Texas. The team is expected to arrive in College Station late this afternoon.

“The National Hurricane Center has predicted an active hurricane season this year. Severe weather events like the one in Joplin remind us of the importance of having a emergency plan for your family,” TX-TF 1 Director Bob McKee said. “The State of Texas takes a proactive response to severe weather and so should citizens. Texans should have an evacuation plan, prepare an emergency disaster kit, and be ready to evacuate when directed by local officials.”

About Texas Task Force 1

Texas Task Force 1 is sponsored by the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) and is comprised of nearly 600 personnel representing more than 70 jurisdictions and agencies from across the state of Texas, and is one of 28 teams in the national urban search and rescue system under FEMA. Texas Task Force 1 and TEEX coordinate statewide requests for search and rescue.

About the Texas Engineering Extension Service

TEEX, a member of The Texas A&M University System, offers hands-on, customized, first-responder training, homeland security exercises, technical assistance and technology transfer services impacting Texas and beyond. TEEX programs include fire services, homeland security, law enforcement, public works, safety and health, search and rescue, and economic development.