UK Firefighter Joins International Rescue Mission in Malawi
Hampshire and Isle of Wight firefighter Daryll Pynigar has flown out to Malawi as part of a 27-strong UK International Search and Rescue (UKISAR) team. The firefighters, drawn from 14 UK fire services, are racing to save lives after Cyclone Freddy devastated Malawi last week.
Deadly Cyclone Leaves Thousands Homeless
The cyclone, which struck on 12th March, has claimed over 300 lives and displaced tens of thousands. The UKISAR team will help local authorities find survivors using their specialist equipment, which they will also leave behind for Malawi’s future emergencies.
Self-Sufficient Heroes Ready for 14-Day Mission
UKISAR firefighters provide emergency shelter for around 3,600 people and deliver safe drinking water to thousands more. They operate completely independently—bringing their own food, water, shelter, sanitation, and communications—so they don’t burden Malawi’s strained resources.
Local Firefighter Leads Base of Operations
Daryll, an on-call firefighter at Bishop’s Waltham, will serve as the Base of Operations team leader in Malawi. 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.”
“Our teams have been praised for their recent efforts in Turkey and Jersey, showing their skill and dedication worldwide.”
Last year, Daryll joined a convoy delivering vital aid to rescue workers in Ukraine. With 30 years of disaster response experience, UKISAR is on standby for global crises, deploying as soon as official support is requested.
