Who we are

Formed in 1985, Rescue International (RI) is a nonprofit organization composed of dedicated individuals, response teams, and companies that provide specialized search, rescue, communications, and recovery services—completely free of charge to requesting agencies. Our mission is to support those in need, whether during disaster relief or rescue operations, with no cost for our servicesI.

Our educational programs are built on the expertise of experienced instructors who provide hands-on training and real-world knowledge. These programs are supported by comprehensive written guides and manuals. RI offers a wide range of Search and Rescue (SAR) training programs, designed to prepare responders for any situation.

Our Canine Programs are designed to help SAR canine handlers and their dogs achieve the necessary training standards for various operational scenarios. These specialized training sessions ensure both handlers and their dogs are ready for action when it matters most. Based in Delaware Water Gap area of Pennsylvania, our teams have responded to numerous major disasters over the past 34 years. This includes the 1987 Bridgeport, CT apartment collapse, the 1988 Armenia Earthquake, Hurricanes Hugo, Andrew, and Opal, the 1999 Boundbrook, NJ floods, the World Trade Center disaster recovery, and extensive water rescues during Hurricane Katrina.

Most recently, we responded our Deployed Technologies Unit to Ft. Myers, FL after Hurricane Ian, supporting communications for a FEMA camp operations and local relief centers (see our You Tube channel). More recently for Helene in 2024 were we deployed Starlink units at key infrastructure and two fire houses, in first few days after the storm hit the Asheville and Black Mountain areas. We also supporded a regional relief center with WIFI, logistics and charging station, that served 100's of local residents every day.

RI has also been actively involved in many regional rescue operations, particularly during storm and flood events with our Canine and State SARRT chapter.

Our Canine Recovery Task Force continues to expand, offering recovery canines and resources to law enforcement at no charge, ensuring critical services are available when needed most.

With over 50 years of SAR experience, our Director of Operations has led and participated in hundreds of search and rescue missions worldwide. His vast expertise has been instrumental in shaping RI’s response strategies and educational programs, ensuring we’re always ready to respond effectively.

RI also maintains a Rescue Database, listing specialized resources that are provided at no cost by partnering agencies and manufacturers through sponsorship agreements with RI. This ensures our resources are readily available and accessible to those who need them.

Join us on YouTube at Starlink Tech by RI