How we operate

The team is structured in the following manner:

A group of six Duty Controllers on a weekly rota form the primary contact point for the Police. In the event of an incident the Police will contact the controller on duty by telephone or pager. The Duty Controller will then initiate whatever action is appropriate and will be in overall control of the rescue operation for its duration.

A group of six Underground Controllers whose role is to direct and control the rescue operation underground.

An operational team comprising of active cavers, climbers and walkers who train regularly and form the primary resource of personnel to carry out the rescue.

Additional support members are available to supplement the operational team in the event of a large or prolonged rescue, or in the event of multiple concurrent incidents.

A Council is elected annually to run the organisation. It comprises the usual positions of President, Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer together with Medical, Equipment, Personnel and Training officers. The Council includes the six Duty and six Underground Controllers and 3 elected council members.