Training and Capacity Building for First Responders
Rescue Response International
Introduction
RRI instructors are considered global experts in disaster response and capacity building. These subject matter experts are former members of world-renowned UN INSARAG classified heavy search and rescue teams USA-1 and USA-2, FEMA SAR teams, and senior local first responders. Instructors can offer training in both English and Spanish.
Our instructors have conducted these trainings at the request of U.S. embassies, host nation governments, U.S. Southern Command, and NGOs in countries including El Salvador, Jamaican, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Guatemalan, Colombian, and Regional Security System member states’ defence forces, local first responders, and NGO personnel. The first training of 2026 was a helicopter medevac and Search and Rescue training in Antigua and Barbuda with Antigua’s Fire Rescue, Police Officers, and Antigua Defense Forces from January 20-23, in partnership with US Southern Command.
Our Training and Capacity Building Offer
RRI can provide both basic and advanced training. Our instructors are all global subject matter experts specializing in response and preparedness disciplines. RRI’s realistic hands-on training delivery enhances responders’ capabilities and safety while operating in austere environments. A list of some of our most sought-after courses can be found in the following pages. These can be combined into multi-day trainings or kept separate, dependent on the needs of the entity requesting training.
Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) (16 hours) /All Combatants (AC) (8 hours)/Tactical Emergency Critical Care for Law Enforcement Officers (TECC LEO) (8 hours)
Choosing from above, there are multiple options for tactical combat casualty care courses that can be provided. These are all Department of Defense-developed program teaching evidence-based, lifesaving trauma techniques for use in various settings, including drug interdiction, humanitarian operations, and battlefield scenarios.
Hazardous Materials First Responder Operations (HMFRO) (8 hours)
Provide responders with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to plan, identify, respond to, and implement performance-based response actions for hazardous materials (HAZMAT) incidents. Processes for chemical identification, gross decontamination, and victim treatment. Students are provided hands-on practical skills training in the establishment and operation of a gross decon corridor for exposed victims. Instruction and identification of PPE requirements for hot, warm, and cold zones.
Maritime Interdiction Boarding Team Medical Training (16 hours)
Provide specialized medical trauma patient care training to boarding teams. Identification of critical injuries, basic and advanced medical intervention, stabilization, and evacuation. Confined space medical practice, patient packaging, and movement using specialized devices for confirmed space.
Vessel Boarding and Patient Evacuation via Helicopter (8 hours)
Teams are taught vessel boring techniques from helicopters. Teams are provided the opportunity to practice various skill sets in boarding, maneuvering, and clearing vessels. Integrated into the training includes techniques for patient treatment and evacuation.
Stop the Bleed (4 hours)
A U.S. Department of Defense-initiated program teaching civilians to identify and treat life-threatening bleeding emergencies using IFAKs (Individual First Aid Kits). RRI instructors develop and execute scenario-based training allowing students to practice learned skills in a realistic environment.
Swift and static water rescue (8 hours, or with boats 16 hours)
Rescue individuals from fast-moving water (swift) or calm/flooded areas (static), including reach-throw-row-go priorities, use of throw bags, boat-based rescues. Provide students the necessary skills to enter swift water to make a rescue as well as the necessary techniques for self-rescue should the rescue become a victim.
UN INSARAG-standardized Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) training (8 hours)
Covers specialized training in search and rescue techniques for rescuing victims trapped following natural and manmade events. These skills align with UN international Search and Rescue Standards. This training allows host country first responder teams the ability to support local efforts with skills necessary to victim survival in the first 72 hours following an event.
Rope Rescue Training (8 hours for basic, 16 hours for advanced)
Provide training to first responders in basic self-rescue techniques using multiple devices. Provide instruction and hands on training with self-rescue emergency bailout devices used in emergency settings. Provide instruction and hands on scenarios to team members in basic rope rappelling down mountainous terrain to reach and recover a victim. Skills include proper anchor identification, basic knot tying, swiss seat rigging with webbing, lowering and rappelling options. Use of the rescue triangle for victim recovery.
Smoke and Fire as a Weapon
Trains law enforcement and first responders to handle incidents where fire, smoke, or incendiary materials are used to mask attacks, disrupt responses, or cause casualties. Our course covers threat recognition, tactical coordination, and integrated emergency responses. Students are taught how to operate in a reduced visibility environment using thermal imagery, rope taglines, and proper team search patterns for self-extrication or victim recovery.
