A SPACE scientist is helping people in need here on Earth as part of the North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team.
Dr Harriet Turner, a postdoctoral researcher has been living in Exeter for the past two years and working remotely for the University of Reading and working with Met Office scientists to help improve solar storm forecasts.
However Dr Turner has also been training with the North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team (NDSART), and last week Harriet completed her training to become a fully qualified volunteer.
It now means that she can help with the rescue efforts for those lost or injured on Dartmoor.
North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team is a voluntary service and is one of four rescue teams on Dartmoor, each made up of approximately 40 members.
Harriet said: “I have always been a lover of the outdoors. After moving to Exeter, applying for NDSART seemed like a perfect fit, as it combined my enjoyment of nature and learning new skills with the ability to help within the community.
“My assessment day was in January 2024, and this consisted of a written navigation test and a practical assessment. Despite a rather embarrassing moment when my map was whipped out of my hands by the wind, I was accepted as a trainee and begun training in April 2024. I spent the first few months shadowing full team members on training sessions. These varied from navigation exercises, casualty care training and specific equipment practice, to full search and rescue exercises.
“Throughout our training, we undertook several assessments, including a three-hour nighttime navigation assessment using only a map and compass, basic life support, primary surveys for assessing a casualty and rope skills for working on steep ground. These assessments made sure that we were ready for the time when we would be doing it for real.
“I was accepted as a full-team member in May, but the training does not stop, with sessions every Tuesday evening to ensure that our skills remain sharp. It was a really proud moment to be handed my NDSART badges in front of the rest of the team, and I am excited to play my part towards this vital support service within the community.
Find out more about North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team via: ndsart.org.uk
