What we do

The Special Operations Division responds to unusual emergencies.

We plan, equip, and train the special operations forces. They respond to emergencies that are not considered normal fire and rescue calls.

This includes:

• Fires, emergency operations
• Rescues on ice and water
• Urban search and rescue
• Terrorism and domestic attack incidents
• Structural collapses like the 35W bridge collapse
• Hazardous materials and chemical/biological incidents

This task force is:

• A specialized urban search and rescue (USAR) team.

• A state of Minnesota resource that assists with emergencies that requires special skills.
• Works for and supports local response agencies.

MN-TF1 specialists come from several public safety organizations, including: 

• Minneapolis fire department
• Dakota County Special Operations team
• Edina fire department
• Rochester fire department