Red Cross wraps first series of training for Community Disaster Response Officers.

The Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society has wrapped up training with the first cohort of Community Disaster Response Officers.

This is in anticipation of what is predicted to be a very active hurricane season. The training was made possible through funding by the international federation of red cross.

During may to June this year, about a dozen participants received training and certification as community disaster response officers.

Red Cross said the training empowers communities by equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively during disasters.

“To build resilient communities, it is critical that the necessary training is pursued to reduce adverse impacts on society. As climate change creates more intense and dangerous weather patterns, personal and collective efforts cannot just be reactive but rather based on sound plans that will mitigate risks and harm to life and property, a representative from the organisation said.”

“CDRT training empowers communities by equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively during disasters. The training has no doubt created greater community resilience and strategic approaches that will enhance response efforts in times of disaster and crises”.

The organisation further notes that trained individuals can make a difference by using their knowledge and skills gained in the 10 modules training in radio communication, first aid, search and rescue, triage, fire safety, stress management, health in emergencies, disaster risk management and preparedness, community assessment and shelter management to save lives and protect property while waiting for professional assistance.

The facilitators of the course were Dr. Jose Humphreys, Jameel Ambrose and Anderson Tuitt, with support of senior sergeant Quincy George Sergeant Antonio Pryce from the Antigua and Barbuda Fire Department.

Similar trainings are expected to be conducted throughout the country including Barbuda.