The Orange County Rescue squad is a non-profit heavy rescue organization that provides emergency response within Orange and surrounding counties. The squad has provided non-profit, volunteer service since 1968 and continues to provide rescue and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel within the county, regionally and at times state-wide.

The squad provides a service that augments existing emergency services within the county that are primarily funded through local taxes, state and/or national grants. The squad responds jointly with city and other volunteer fire departments to provide an extra level of heavy rescue response for severe motor vehicle crashes, industrial accidents, agricultural accidents and mass transit incidents. Additionally, the squad provides augmentation and special event Emergency Medical Services within the county and maintains members that are trained in other disciplines of rescue response.

Heavy rescue is very specialized and requires specialized tools that range from the Jaws-of-Life, where we carry several versions and sizes of spreaders, cutters and rams; high and low pressure airbags; stabilization and bracing devices; pneumatic and hydraulic tools; personal safety and protection systems. Response apparatus that supports scene lighting; self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) devices and refilling station; 9,000lbs and 12,000lbs fixed and portable mounted winches; radio, communications systems and all equipment needed for rescue or recovery.

Heavy rescue reponse requires additional levels of specialized basic and advanced training to maximize knowledge and safety for patients and responders. The rescue tools that the Orange County Rescue squad deploy on scene are common throughout the fire and heavy rescue industry, this allows any firefighter or responder who has had general training to fully leverage resources made available though the squads response.

The squad needs your support and donations to cover the costs of maintaining and acquiring response apparatus; rescue equipment and maintenance; rescue operations and training; facilities maintenance and squad level operations are our main ares of expense. The Orange County Rescue squad unlike municipal fire departments or volunteer fire departments that receive county, state or national funding, is not directly supported by the county tax base.

The squad funds and supports it's operations primarily through grants, fund raising and donations, mostly through the hard work of dedicated squad supporters, volunteers and squad members. We are looking for your support! Your donations are tax deductible and your contribution to the rescue squad will be honored through continued life saving rescue response and training within the county.