Panama rescue team on standby for Ecuador

AS THE DEATH toll in the earthquake  in Ecuador  edged past  250 with  more than 2500 others injured , Panama  readied a  35 strong  team and dogs to assist in rescue operations.

Panama is a member of the Office of Cooperation of Humanitarian Affairs of the United Nations and is waiting for confirmation of acceptance of aid by Ecuador.

A team of 35 rescue workers would be accompanied by dogs trained to locate people caught in rubble.

The civil defense agency Sinaproc has also be in contact with Ecuador to see what assistance it can offer.

In addition, the government has initiated an information hotline for Panamanians living in or visiting  Ecuador so they can check in with the embassy to let friends and relatives know they are all right.