Rescue - Definition and Overview

Rescue refers to operations that usually involve the saving of life, or prevention of additional injury.

Rescue operations often involve technical work, such as use of the "Jaws of Life" or similar hydraulic cutting and spreading tools to remove individuals from wrecked vehicles (vehicle extrication), or the use of ropes and special devices to reach and remove individuals and /or animals from difficult locations. These operations include confined space rescue, rope rescue, and cave rescue.

Rescue operations require a high degree of training, and are conducted by well trained teams who operate better with increased experience and education. Rescue operations are performed by special Rescue Squads, either independent or part of a larger organizations like a fire or ambulance service.

See Also

• Animal Rescue
• Technical rescue

In archaeology, Rescue is a charitable organisation concerned with the protection of archaeological remains in Britain.