Community-based training is helping build local response capacity before natural disasters strike.
The American Red Cross of Utah is expanding efforts to help communities across the state prepare before natural disasters happen by training local volunteers and strengthening the ability of communities to respond when emergencies occur.
The work is part of the Red Cross approach to disaster risk reduction, which puts greater emphasis on preparedness before a disaster rather than beginning the work only after an emergency occurs. The effort recognizes that people who live in a community understand its needs, challenges and resources and can play an important role in preparing for and responding to disasters.
“These people are the experts of their own community,” said Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Greater Salt Lake Chapter. “We’re working together to provide them with tools, training and support that turns everyday members of the community into Red Crossers ready to take action.”
Building Local Disaster Response Capacity
The Red Cross is expanding disaster volunteer training opportunities across Utah, with an emphasis on reaching rural and at-risk communities. The trainings are free and open to anyone, with no previous disaster response experience required.
Training local volunteers means communities can have people who already understand Red Cross disaster operations and are prepared to help when an emergency occurs. Volunteers can train for roles ranging from supporting shelters to helping families following a disaster.
“Disasters can happen anywhere, and every community benefits from having people who are prepared to respond,” said Lafranca. “You don’t have to have previous disaster response experience to make a difference. We want to make these trainings accessible to anyone who wants to learn, get involved and be there for their community when help is needed most.”
International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction
The effort is being highlighted as part of International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction on Oct. 13. The observance began in 1989 following a call by the United Nations General Assembly to promote greater awareness of disaster risk and ways communities can reduce those risks.
The annual observance focuses on steps communities can take before disasters occur to reduce risks and strengthen their ability to respond and recover.
Opportunities to Volunteer
The Red Cross of Utah offers training for people interested in supporting disaster responsein their communities. Training is available for roles including operating Red Cross shelters, providing assistance to families following disasters and other response functions.
Training is free and no previous Red Cross experience is required. More information about volunteering with the Red Cross is available at RedCross.org/Volunteer.
