JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – With Hurricane Isaias barreling toward the Florida coastline, the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) has mobilized a significant emergency response force to assist communities in the Florida Panhandle. As the storm threatens to bring life-threatening conditions, JFRD is deploying a multifaceted team of experts to bolster local disaster response efforts.
The centerpiece of the deployment is a Type III Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team, comprised of more than 40 highly trained personnel. This specialized unit is equipped to handle the most complex post-storm scenarios, including search and extraction operations in damaged structures and areas obstructed by severe flooding or debris.
The team’s composition highlights the depth of JFRD’s capabilities, featuring rescue specialists, hazardous materials experts, structural engineers, and medical professionals. Furthermore, the unit includes two certified live-find canines and their handlers, essential assets for locating survivors in rubble. To ensure they can operate independently in disaster zones, the team is self-sufficient for the first 72 hours, carrying their own food, water, shelter, and fuel. A convoy of 17 vehicles, outfitted with heavy rigging and technical rescue gear, is currently staging in Tallahassee, positioning the crews to deploy rapidly as soon as conditions are safe.
Beyond the USAR mission, JFRD is providing high-level administrative and strategic support. Three members have deployed to the Washington County Emergency Operations Center as part of the Northeast Florida All-Hazards Incident Management Team (AHIMT). These specialists will fill critical leadership roles, including Public Information Officer, Deputy Operations Section Chief, and Logistics Section Chief, helping local officials navigate the logistics of storm response and recovery. Additionally, one JFRD member has been dispatched to assist the Florida Fire Marshal’s Office, serving as a Resource Unit Leader within the state’s USAR Incident Support Team.
JFRD Director and Fire Chief Percy Golden II emphasized the department’s commitment to mutual aid, noting that the deployment is a testament to the city’s readiness to support its neighbors. “When our neighbors need help, Jacksonville shows up,” Chief Golden said. “Our members bring a wide range of skills and qualifications that make them subject matter experts in these types of missions. We’re grateful to Mayor Deegan for her support in sending them, and to the crews here at home stepping up so we can.”
Despite the large-scale deployment, JFRD leadership offered reassurance to Duval County residents. The department confirmed that all local stations and units remain fully staffed, and the assistance provided to the Panhandle will not impact the agency’s ability to respond to emergencies within Jacksonville.
Residents are encouraged to follow JFRD on social media for ongoing updates regarding the deployed personnel as they work to aid those in the path of the storm.
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