BFPD Summer Newsletter_4.2026 - Flipbook - Page 6
SPECIAL TEAM HIGHLIGHT
TECHNICAL RESCUE TEAM
FF/PM Clark Dendinger
Team Leader
FF/PM Ryan Nelson
Team Member
The Bartlett Fire District Technical Rescue Team (TRT) is specially trained to respond to complex
emergencies that go beyond what a typical ûre company handles. These situations can include conûned space
rescues, trench or excavation collapses, rope rescues at height or below ground, structural collapses, and
serious transportation or industrial incidents involving heavy vehicles or machinery. Many of these calls
involve unique challenges, such as stabilizing overturned trucks, removing victims trapped in equipment, or
safely operating in unstable environments where traditional tools and tactics are not enough.
To handle these types of incidents, TRT members complete hundreds of hours of advanced, hands-on training
and operate with specialized equipment. This can include rope systems for high-angle rescues, shoring
systems to stabilize collapsed trenches or buildings, cutting tools for heavy machinery, air monitoring devices
for hazardous environments, and lifting equipment capable of moving large vehicles or debris. Much of their
work involves careful planning and coordination to ensure both the victim and rescuers remain safe in
unpredictable conditions.
Bartlett Fire is also part of MABAS (Mutual Aid Box Alarm System) Illinois, a statewide system that allows ûre
departments to quickly request help from surrounding communities during large or complex incidents. As a
member of MABAS Division 1, and working closely with Division 2, Bartlett has access to a wide network of
highly trained personnel, specialized teams, and equipment. This means that when a major incident occurs,
additional resources can be brought in quickly, and our TRT members are also called upon to assist
neighboring departments when needed. Through this system, we9re able to provide a higher level of service
not just to Bartlett, but to the entire region.
