Houlong Residents Form Rescue Team Amidst Frequent Traffic Accidents

Houlong Township in Taiwan's Miaoli County is establishing its own volunteer emergency rescue squad, the "Houlong Rescue Volunteer Firefighter Team." This initiative stems from a strong sense of urgency among local residents regarding traffic safety. The township's strategic location, with two national highway interchanges and proximity to major roads like the Provincial Highway 72 and National Freeway 3, coupled with high-speed rail and train stations, results in a dense network of traffic. This heavy flow of commuters and tourists contributes to a high incidence of traffic accidents and emergency calls.

The newly formed team reports an average of nearly 200 rescue cases per month in the Houlong area. Previously, local volunteers were integrated into the Zhunan team for training and management. However, with the increasing frequency of accidents, residents felt that "distant water cannot quench a nearby fire." They recognized the critical need for local individuals, familiar with the area, to provide immediate rescue efforts, thereby securing the most valuable golden hour for their neighbors.

“

Houlong area averages nearly 200 rescue cases per month.

The establishment of the independent Houlong Rescue Volunteer Firefighter Team is the culmination of years of active participation and growing volunteer numbers. The team is preparing for an anticipated surge in visitors for the 2027 Taiwan Lantern Festival, which will be headquartered in Houlong near the Miaoli High-Speed Rail Station. Beyond collaborating with the official fire department, the volunteers plan to engage the community by promoting first aid knowledge. Their goal is to build a robust safety net powered by the local community.

“

Distant water cannot quench a nearby fire.