Training and Costs

Charlotte Fire Department and Raleigh ire Department provide the main training centers for North Carolina USAR teams because of the world-class training facility and the FEMA-qualified instructors located there. 

All training and equipment for the USAR teams are standardized.  All team members receive 100 hours of initial training in Structural Collapse. Other specialized, position specific training is held throughout the State by FEMA qualified instructors.

USAR Teams come from fire, law enforcement, rescue, and EMS agencies, both paid and non-paid professionals. Personnel must meet all training criteria as set forth by the Division of Emergency Management.

The Division of Emergency Management pays all course costs for training that ensures all USAR teams hold and maintain the same level of training.

Hosting agencies are required to manage and absorb the costs associated with deployment.

Incurred costs may be reimbursed by requesting agencies. Hosting agencies may be a part of the statewide mutual aid agreement.   Teams may be reimbursed when responding to declared disasters.

« this page last modified 11/04/08 »