Abstract

Background and Aim: Skilled and expert manpower is essential for quick and proper response to accidents and fast and accurate relief and rescue operations. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of the Red Crescent Society's rapid reaction teams on rescue equipment in the prevalent natural and man-made disasters. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the first half of 2017. A sample of 120 respondents from the Red Crescent Society of Tehran, Iran was selected based on the Cochran's formula. A researcher-made questionnaire was used to collect data and SPSS18.0 software was used to analyze data. Results: A total of 84 (74) of the participants in the study were in the range of 20-30 years old. A total of 61 (50.44) had a bachelor's degree. The results indicated that the mean rank of knowledge status is 21.45 points higher than average. People who have been involved in more than 16 operations were more knowledgeable about rescue equipment. People with experience of one to ten maneuvers had a lower score than those with experience of more than ten maneuvers. Also, people who have taken part in training courses scored higher grades. Conclusion: In general, the knowledge of the Red Crescent Societies' rapid response teams to rescue equipment in the natural and man-made disasters in the city of Tehran, Iran is in an acceptable status but far from ideal. Achieving this goal is possible through powerful manpower, proper organization, continuing education and training, adequately equipping search and rescue teams and providing the opportunity to benefit from the experiences of the United Nations and experienced countries. © 2018 Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved.