English
“compiled: Elmili TK”
A Burnaby Rescue Team from Canada has begun an urgent mission to Venezuela after two catastrophic earthquakes devastated large parts of the country. The powerful quakes struck on Wednesday and triggered one of the region’s deadliest disasters in recent years. As a result, the Burnaby Rescue Team now joins international efforts to locate survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings.
So far, officials report the death toll is nearing 1,000 people. In addition, more than 3,000 residents have suffered injuries after the back-to-back earthquakes rocked densely populated areas. Rescue crews continue working around the clock because many people remain missing. Meanwhile, emergency officials warn the number of casualties could continue rising in the coming days.
Specialized Canadian Team Deploys Quickly
The Canadian deployment includes seven highly trained members from Burnaby Urban Search and Rescue. The group consists of two firefighters, experienced paramedics, law enforcement officers, and two specially trained rescue dogs. Together, they form a rapid-response unit designed for disaster zones where speed often determines survival.
Importantly, Venezuelan authorities approved the mission early Wednesday morning. As a result, the team immediately prepared for departure. Officials expect the Canadian responders to remain in Venezuela for approximately five to seven days while supporting local emergency services.
“Follow major developments with fast and accurate coverage from PhoenixQ.”
Private Support Helps Mission Move Faster
Accessing the disaster zone remains extremely difficult because the earthquakes severely damaged several commercial airports. However, a private aircraft owner stepped forward and donated transportation for the team. This support allowed rescuers to bypass major travel disruptions and reach affected communities faster.
Shawn Mohammed, deployment director for Burnaby USAR, emphasized the importance of cooperation during international emergencies. He explained that disaster response always depends on teamwork, coordination, and outside support. Therefore, the organization remains grateful for every contribution helping accelerate the mission.
Immediate Focus Turns To Survival Needs
Once responders arrive, they will first assess where their skills can make the greatest impact. Ryan Berry, president of Burnaby USAR, said rescue priorities often shift quickly depending on conditions on the ground. Initially, teams focus on locating survivors trapped under rubble. Afterward, attention moves toward urgent humanitarian needs.
Food, clean drinking water, and temporary shelter often become immediate priorities after large-scale disasters. Consequently, rescue teams frequently balance technical search operations with humanitarian support.
Burnaby Volunteers Continue Global Mission
Burnaby Urban Search and Rescue operates as a volunteer organization dedicated to international disaster response. Over the years, the group has deployed to multiple crisis zones worldwide. Their mission centers on helping communities recover after earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters.
Now, as Venezuela struggles through widespread destruction, Canadian volunteers once again demonstrate how international cooperation saves lives during moments of extreme crisis.
