5.1. OBJECTIVE/JUSTIFICATION The US&R Rescue Strut system is designed for Urban Search and Rescue operations and is standardized by FEMA. It includes various rescue struts, allowing rescuers to tackle a wide range of structural collapse scenarios effectively. This system is essential for providing the necessary tools to manage complex rescue situations. There are many forms of the strut systems currently available, however, not all strut systems are compatible with the County's current inventory. Bids must include the exact Paratech items listed in the price proposal. Due to the nature of the use of this equipment, all bids will be reviewed by County staff and the Technical Rescue Team. 5.2. Background The Pinellas County Technical Rescue Team (TRT) agreement is an interlocal agreement (Attachment A) between Pinellas County and the following cities of Clearwater, Largo, Pinellas Park and St Peterburg. This collaboration responds to emergency incidents that involve complex rescue situations within Pinellas County. The TRT agreement dictates that it is essential to maintain preparedness, training, expertise, equipment and resources to maintain an effective capability to respond to emergency incidents involving complex rescue situations. Per the TRT interlocal agreement, executed on January 11, 2022, Section 501 (d), outlines Pinellas County's responsibility to obtain equipment. The County replaced the Clearwater US&R Rescue Strut system in 2021 with Paratech Equipment. This request is intended to replace the 20-year-old system currently in inventory in St Petersburg. 5.3. Requirements The awarded Contractor shall be able to provide the exact Paratech items listed on the Pricing Proposal. Paratech items are compatible with the County's current inventory and therefore bids must include the exact items requested. All equipment and products provided must be new/current model. Surplus, seconds, factory rejects, closeouts, refurbished or distressed items are not acceptable and, if furnished, will be rejected.
