Featured image via Rescue Squad Facebook Page

Last weekend in Egypt was crazy due to the heavy rain and wind that crippled all life’s activities. However, during the mess, a group of brave and kind volunteers made it their mission to help as many people as possible with their off-road vehicles.

Meet the Rescue Squad, the group of friends with 4x4 cars who started their rescue mission by chance three years ago when passing people whose car was stuck in the floods. Ever since then, they have been coming to the aid of whoever calls them, without wanting anything in return. 

Not only that, their Facebook posts include pieces of advice to make sure people try to avoid getting into trouble in the first place. These precautions even include actions that need to be taken if one’s car stops working while stuck in the water, or if the water has entered buildings. 

Rescue Squad has made it super easy to ask for their help by putting their mobile numbers on Facebook; to request their aid, one just needs to send their location on WhatsApp so the team can easily track them. They also welcome any other volunteers who can help them realise their goal of reaching as many people in need as possible. 

Some members’ cars have suffered though, like Ahmed ElBasyouni whose car broke down while rescuing a civilian’s BMW. Sherif Khairy, another member from Jeep Squad, a page with the same aim as Rescue Squad, also suffered losses that came up to around EGP 90,000. They were both offered to have their cars fixed by companies and individuals who wanted to return the favour and make sure they weren’t out of pocket after their noble actions. 

The Arab Organization for Industrialization said they would fix Khairy’s car for free as a reward for his bravery and altruism. 

Despite the losses, Rescue Squad on its own managed to save over 200 cars on Thursday and Friday when the weather was at its worst!

Different authorities thanked the teams for their efforts, and The Ministry of Interior rewarded Jeep Squad by giving them honourary badges for offering their helping hand to anyone in need in such a fast and orderly manner. They surely got the recognition they deserve after tirelessly assisting people over the past few days. 

The calls are still coming to every single member of the team to show gratitude for what they did during such dangerous and desperate times. People are praying for their safety and for them to continue having hearts of gold. 

There was definitely a bright side to these difficult days we’ve been through. It really showed us how kind others can be. So, check out Rescue Squad and Jeep Squad, and don’t forget to give them a call if you’re ever in trouble!