Jeju Fire Department Ranks First Nationwide in Regular Evaluation of Air Accident Search and Rescue

Published 21 Nov.2023 10:56(KST)

The Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Fire Safety Headquarters (Chief Kim Suhwan) achieved first place nationwide by receiving the highest evaluation in all categories in the ‘2023 National Aviation Accident Search and Rescue Regular Evaluation’.

119 General Situation Room flight manager communicating via radio and controlling the 119 fire helicopter. [Photo by Jeju Fire Headquarters]

According to the Jeju Fire Headquarters on the 21st, this evaluation, conducted once every two years by the National Fire Agency targeting 19 city and provincial headquarters nationwide, is subdivided into 11 items across three areas: preparedness, response, and post-action related to aviation accident occurrences, thoroughly assessing all aspects of search and rescue operations.

This evaluation took place over about a month from September 1 to 25, assessing detailed matters related to aircraft accidents and the appropriateness of initial response measures, as well as other aspects related to search and rescue operations.

In particular, Jeju was highly rated for reflecting matters related to the Aircraft Accident Rescue Coordination Headquarters in the 119 Comprehensive Situation Room Operation Regulations, and for regular training and communication between the comprehensive situation room flight management officers and the 119 Aviation Unit helicopter coordinators to ensure safe flight operations.

Jeju, which achieved first place in this evaluation, will receive a commendation from the Minister of the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, and the personnel in charge of related tasks will be awarded a commendation from the National Fire Agency Commissioner.

Chief Kim Suhwan stated, “Through this evaluation, the Jeju Fire Safety Headquarters has proven to be excellent in preparedness, response, and post-action fields by perfectly responding not only to land disasters but also to emergency situations such as aviation accident search and rescue.”

He added, “Going forward, Jeju Fire will continue to respond perfectly to all disaster situations and do its best to ensure the safety of residents as well as domestic and international tourists visiting Jeju.”