MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – After more than a week of intense search and rescue operations, the 35-member team of Florida Urban Search and Rescue (FL USAR) Task Force 8 has returned home from deployment in response to Hurricane Milton.
A team of technical rescue experts from Marion County, Ocala, and Gainesville Fire Rescue was sent to Manatee County on Wednesday, Oct. 9.
Task Force 8 say they started water rescue missions right away when they arrived. They searched neighborhoods hit by floods and checked homes for anyone in need. Their skills and quick response helped make critical areas in Manatee County safer.
After finishing their work in Manatee County, the team moved on to Pasco and Hernando Counties. There, they continued water rescues and searching neighborhoods. Task Force 8, with their skills in water rescue, search and rescue, and clearing roads, played a key role in keeping people safe in affected areas.
The team managed to save 249 people and 47 pets during their mission, and they also helped another 164 citizens in the areas affected by the storm.
Task Force 8 is back, signaling the conclusion of another mission. These skilled responders provided life-saving assistance during one of the most challenging times for Florida communities affected by Hurricane Milton.