Operating Engineers 324, first responders simulate disaster rescue missions at Howell training center
Lawmakers, local leaders attend open house highlighting Operating Engineers’ nearly 20-year partnership with first responders
HOWELL – Operating Engineers 324 and their Michigan Urban Search & Rescue (MUSAR) partners opened their training facility on Wednesday to more than a dozen state legislators to experience the training exercises that prepare first responders for disaster.
The open house included demonstrations of a trench rescue, K-9 rubble search and rescue with a live volunteer, building stabilization with crane operations and Michigan State Police Bomb Squad post-blast at the Operating Engineers 324’s 555-acre Construction Careers Center in Howell.
“Operating Engineers do the important, difficult and dangerous jobs that keep our state’s economy running and bravely dedicate their time and talents to keep us safe both in Michigan and beyond,” said Lee Graham, Operating Engineers 324 LMEC executive director. “I’m proud to have had the opportunity today to share our nearly 20-year partnership with MUSAR with local leaders and lawmakers in Lansing.”
The Operating Engineers 324 is a partner with MUSAR, which trains and organizes local emergency services personnel into task forces deployed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the event of a disaster. The Operating Engineers 324 partnered with MUSAR in 1999 to provide the expertise necessary to help execute disaster missions.
MUSAR’s Michigan Task Force 1 was recently deployed to Florida in the wake of Hurricane Irma.
“I am proud that Michigan Task Force-1 was called upon to serve our fellow Americans in Florida during Hurricane Irma,” said Sen. David Knezek (D-Dearborn Heights). “I know from my own personal experience that training and discipline are key in times of crisis, and I applaud MUSAR responders and the Operating Engineers who signed up for this training. Michigan’s Task Force-1 is one of 28 task forces like it in the nation and sets us apart as a leader in disaster-preparedness.”
Hurricane Irma was the first out-of-state deployment for the 45-person Task Force, which is made up of disaster relief certified doctors, heavy equipment operators and structural engineers.
“This innovative partnership between the Operating Engineers and MUSAR is an example of how we can maximize our state’s resources and talent when we work together, and highlights the need to continue supporting our first responders, as well as meet the growing demand for jobs in the skilled trades,” said Sen. Mike Kowall (R-White Lake). “We need to continue encourage young people to join our skilled trades force.”
Operating Engineers are the highly skilled workers who run and maintain the cranes, excavators and other heavy machinery needed to build Michigan’s roads and bridges, and are the men and women who run and maintain the heating and cooling systems in schools, hospitals and large buildings.
High-quality audio of the event is available upon request. Please email Abby Walls at awalls@byrumfisk.com.