Evaluation of Kahramanmaraş Centered Earthquakes by Search and Rescue Technicians

This research was conducted to evaluate the difficulties and problems encountered by Disaster and Emergency Situation (AFAD) personnel who served as search and rescue technicians in Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquakes according to their own perspectives and to determine the current deficiencies and problems. All of the search and rescue personnel (14 people) working in a provincial Disaster and Emergency Directorate constituted the study group of the research. The data were obtained through face-to-face interviews. The data obtained were created by using descriptive analysis method. The findings were presented in tables within the framework of the sub-problems of the research and supported by quotations from the participants. As a result of the study, it was determined that search and rescue technician (SAR) personnel have serious problems related to coordination and communication at every stage of disaster management. It has been determined that SAR personnel have problems with non-governmental organizations and volunteers, and lack of basic needs causes low performance. In addition, SAR personnel stated that their managers lack knowledge on disaster issues, lack of trained personnel in the field of search and rescue, etc. Based on the results of this study, suggestions for the solution of the problems identified were presented and thus an attempt was made to contribute to the improvements to be made in the field.