UK Firefighter Joins Life-Saving Mission in Malawi After Cyclone Freddy Devastation
A Hampshire and Isle of Wight firefighter is on the frontline in Malawi, helping rescue survivors after Cyclone Freddy tore through the country last week.
Horror in Malawi: 300 Dead, Thousands Displaced
The deadly cyclone struck Malawi on March 12, killing over 300 people and forcing tens of thousands from their homes. The UK International Search and Rescue (UKISAR) team, including Watch Manager Daryll Pynigar, has been deployed to provide crucial aid.
UKISAR Team Brings High-Tech Rescue and Vital Support
- Daryll Pynigar, an on-call firefighter at Bishop’s Waltham, will lead the Base of Operations for the 27-strong UKISAR team.
- The team hails from 14 UK fire and rescue services and is deployed via the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office.
- Equipped with specialist gear to hunt for survivors, all equipment will be donated to Malawi for future emergencies.
- They plan to provide emergency shelter for 3,600 people and deliver safe drinking water to thousands more.
- Like their recent mission in Turkey, the team is completely self-sufficient for up to 14 days, bringing their own food, water, shelter, and communications to avoid straining local resources.
Fire Chief Hails UKISAR Team’s Global Heroics
Group Manager Phil Foxton said:
“As with all our Urban Search and Rescue firefighters who volunteer to be in UKISAR, Daryll is well-equipped to help in situations like this.
“We are proud to see him involved in the UK International Search and Rescue response to the devastating cyclone in Malawi.
“We are fortunate to have a team of firefighters who are ready to respond to incidents and help to save lives across the world.
“Our USAR and ISAR teams have been commended for their actions following their recent deployments to Jersey and Turkey.”
Veteran Rescuer With Global Experience
Daryll brings 30 years of disaster response experience. Last year, he and a colleague joined a convoy delivering vital aid to rescue workers in Ukraine.
UKISAR remains on permanent standby for large-scale disasters worldwide, acting as an official UK government emergency response team.
Their recent missions include tackling the earthquake crisis in Turkey and aiding after a building collapse in Jersey.
