Natural disasters don’t have to be unmanageable just because they’re unpredictable. In fact, the key to effective disaster response and recovery lies in the hands of well-prepared individuals and communities. Across the globe, education and training programs exist to equip people with the skills needed to respond to emergencies, assist in recovery, and ultimately save lives in the wake of a natural disaster.
Whether you’re looking to volunteer, start a new career, or simply make a difference in your community, there are numerous ways to get involved in disaster response and recovery efforts locally and worldwide. At Prometheus, we’re constantly striving to champion the movement for individuals to get involved at a community level, helping to reinforce their local disaster preparedness efforts and band together as resilient neighbors and friends.
Here’s how you can get involved…
1. Search and Rescue Training
Search and rescue (SAR) teams play a critical role in finding and assisting individuals trapped or displaced during disasters. These teams are often the first on the scene after events like earthquakes, floods, and avalanches wreak havoc in their area. A key component of global SAR efforts is the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG), which sets international standards for response teams.
INSARAG has established the INSARAG External Classification (IEC) system to evaluate and classify Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams, ensuring they meet internationally recognized standards for disaster response. These teams are specialized units trained to operate in urban environments where collapsed buildings, confined spaces, and hazardous conditions commonly follow disasters like earthquakes. The IEC process is impressively rigorous and assesses teams on their operational readiness, equipment, and coordination skills.
- Volunteers: Many SAR and USAR teams are composed of volunteers who generously undergo rigorous training in areas like navigation, first aid, and survival techniques. Local organizations or government agencies frequently offer foundational courses that allow volunteers to master relevant skills for rescue missions and response efforts.
- Careers: For those interested in pursuing SAR as a career, there are specialized programs in wilderness survival, emergency medical services, and technical rescue operations. Many SAR professionals work with government agencies or private organizations.
2. Volunteer Firefighter Programs
Volunteer firefighters are vital to communities, especially in rural areas with limited professional fire services. These volunteers receive training in firefighting, rescue operations, and emergency medical response, and can mean the difference between success and loss when a wildfire or other disaster strikes. Many countries have different categories of firefighters–volunteer or otherwise–involved in disaster response. Explore relevant firefighter statistics for European countries here. Becoming a volunteer firefighter involves completing training programs that cover fire behavior, rescue techniques, and equipment usage. For those considering a career in firefighting, volunteering is a great way to gain experience as a firefighter.
3. Red Cross and FEMA Programs
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent, as well as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), offer disaster response and recovery training programs. Programs and positions vary in requirements of time, energy, and expertise but present great opportunities for citizens to get involved and contribute their efforts to important causes.
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent provides training in first aid, shelter management, and disaster assessment, allowing volunteers to assist in disaster-affected areas. FEMA offers the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program, which trains volunteers in disaster preparedness, fire safety, search and rescue, and medical operations.
“The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is a global humanitarian network of 80 million people that helps those facing disaster, conflict, and health and social challenges. The Movement consists of the ICRC, 191 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).” – ICRC.org
Careers in Disaster Response and Recovery
Interested in getting involved in disaster response as a career? Beyond volunteer opportunities, many find fulfilling career paths that allow them to help others during crises. Career opportunities and specialties include:
Disaster Recovery Specialist
Help communities rebuild and recover after a disaster. These key stakeholders work with government agencies, NGOs, and private firms to develop and implement recovery plans.
Emergency Management Director
Coordinate disaster response activities (like preparedness, mitigation, and recovery efforts) and work closely with local governments to ensure communities are ready to respond.
Humanitarian Aid Worker
Provide assistance in disaster-stricken regions. International organizations often employ these individuals and focus on delivering food, medical supplies, or other essential services to affected communities.
Environmental Health Specialist
Assess and manage environmental hazards following a disaster. These specialists help ensure that water, air, and food supplies are safe for consumption.
Mental Health Specialist or Responder
Provide onsite or virtual Disaster Mental Health (DMH) support to clients and volunteer workers or impacted citizens after a disaster.
The Importance of Community Training and Involvement
Disaster preparedness and response aren’t just the responsibility of professionals–communities can play a crucial role by getting involved and spearheading initiatives that matter to them. One of the most impactful ways to contribute is through volunteering. Whether you join a local CERT program, volunteer as a firefighter, join in on local awareness campaigns, or assist with Red Cross efforts, your contribution can make a significant difference. If you’re unable to volunteer, consider contributing in other ways. Participation in community drills, prioritizing relevant conversation topics when meeting with community members, and donating to local disaster relief organizations can all make a huge impact, creating a more resilient community.
Education and training programs are a valuable opportunity for individuals like you to contribute to your community. Whether through volunteering or pursuing a career in this field, the impact of these efforts is immeasurable. As natural disasters continue to challenge us, the need for skilled and dedicated responders is immense. By getting involved, you–yes, you–can play a critical role in helping your community prepare, respond, and recover from whatever challenges may come.
