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Five firefighters and two search dogs from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service have been deployed to Venezuela as part of a UK-wide search and rescue mission following two devastating earthquakes that have caused widespread destruction and prompted an international emergency response.

They form part of the UK International Search and Rescue Team (UK ISAR), which has been deployed following a request for support from the Government of Venezuela. The team will work alongside local authorities, international partners and humanitarian agencies to help locate survivors and support communities affected by the disaster.

The 68-strong contingent includes firefighters and rescue specialists from 14 fire and rescue services across the UK, including Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service. UK ISAR provides specialist urban search and rescue capabilities and remains on permanent standby to assist countries affected by major disasters when support is requested through the UK Government.

Group Manager Mark Warwick said:

"We are extremely proud of the Lancashire firefighters who have volunteered to deploy as part of the UK International Search and Rescue Team.

"They will be using their specialist skills in challenging conditions to help locate and rescue people affected by this devastating disaster. Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by the earthquakes in Venezuela."

UK ISAR operates under the National Fire Chiefs Council’s National Resilience programme, ensuring the UK can respond rapidly to major international disasters when assistance is requested.