What is a REMS Team?

A REMS (Rapid Emergency Medical Support) team is a specialized group within emergency services, particularly focused on providing immediate medical support during high-risk operations, such as wildland firefighting or other rescue scenarios. The main focus of a REMS team includes:

1. Rapid Response: Ensuring that medical support is available quickly to those in need during emergencies, particularly in remote or hazardous environments.
2. Integration with Fire and Rescue Operations: Working closely with fire departments and other emergency response teams to provide coordinated medical care while operations are ongoing.
3. Training in Medical and Rescue Techniques: Team members are trained in both advanced medical care and rescue techniques to effectively manage injuries that may occur during operations.
4. Focus on Safety: A significant emphasis is placed on the safety of responders and victims, ensuring proper protocols are followed to minimize risks during rescue operations.

Main Focus of REMS Teams

• Patient Care: Providing advanced medical care and ensuring the health and safety of individuals involved in rescue scenarios.
• Operational Support: Assisting in the safe extraction of victims from hazardous situations while managing medical needs on-site.
• Collaboration: Coordinating with other teams (fire, technical rescue, etc.) for comprehensive incident management.

For more detailed insights, you might find the following resources helpful:

• Leadership in Rescue
• Technical Rope Rescue: Comprehensive Training for Teams
• Essential Rope Rescue Skills On-Demand

Specific Gear Needed for a REMS Team

A REMS team requires specialized gear to effectively provide medical support in various environments, particularly in wildland or remote settings. Key gear includes:

1. Medical Equipment:
   • First Aid Kits: Comprehensive kits tailored for trauma and emergency situations.
   • Defibrillators (AEDs): Automated external defibrillators for cardiac emergencies.
   • Portable Oxygen: For patients with respiratory distress.
   • Splinting and Immobilization Devices: For stabilizing injuries.
2. Rescue Equipment:
   • Ropes and Harnesses: To safely access and extract patients from difficult terrain.
   • Pulleys and Descenders: Such as the Petzl ID S for controlled descents and ascents.
   • Stretcher or Litters: For transporting patients safely.
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
   • Helmets: To protect against head injuries during operations.
   • Gloves and Eye Protection: For safety during medical treatment.
   • Wildland Fire Gear: If operating in fire-prone areas, appropriate firefighting gear is necessary.

Team Composition

The size and composition of a REMS team can vary based on the specific mission, but generally includes:

• Team Leader: Responsible for overall operations and coordination.
• Medical Personnel: Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or paramedics trained in advanced life support.
• Rescue Specialists: Trained in technical rescue techniques and equipment.

Typically, a REMS team may consist of 4 to 8 members, depending on the complexity of the operation.

Terrain and Mode of Travel

• Terrain: REMS teams often operate in rugged, remote, or wildland environments. This can include:
  • Forests
  • Mountains
  • Desert areas
  • Areas affected by wildfires
• Mode of Travel:
  • On Foot: Teams often need to hike into remote areas, especially when access is limited.
  • All-Terrain Vehicles: For transporting equipment and personnel closer to the incident site when possible.
  • Helicopters: May be used for rapid deployment or extraction in particularly challenging terrains.

Additional Resources

For further insights on the setup and operational requirements of a REMS team, you might find these resources helpful:

• REMS Overview and Operations
• Equipment for Rescue Operations
• Training for Wildland Operations

If you have more specific questions or need additional information about gear or operations, feel free to ask!

Peace on your Days

Lance