Emergency Response Unit

Health Emergency Response

The Emergency Response Unit (ERU) consists of trained personnel and modules of equipment that can be deployed at any time when international emergencies arise. The Canadian Red Cross ERU’s are continually committed to delivering many services to individuals and communities affected by disasters, although presently we believe that our most important focus should particularly be on mobilizing safe and secure health services in a fast, efficient and coordinated manner.

The Canadian Red Cross Health Emergency Response Team contributes Emergency Response Units to disaster stricken areas by collaborating with CRCS. The Canadian Red Cross, with the support of CIDA, has two health Emergency Response Units on standby- the Basic Health Care (BHC) unit and the Rapid Deployment Emergency Hospital (RDEH).

 To learn more about Emergency Response Units click here.

The preparedness and reliability of these two units allows for rapid deployment, having teams depart within 24-48 hours after a disaster occurs. They are then designed to be operational within 12 hours of arrival on site.

First Responder Initiative Program (FRI)

In order to prepare for and respond more quickly to the emergency needs of vulnerable populations affected by complex humanitarian situations and natural disasters, the Government of Canada and the Canadian Red Cross co-founded a three-year program called the First Responder Initiative Program (FRI). The program will run until 2013 and it is made up of three components that focus on preparation for deployment, having ERU’s available, and strengthening our ability to manage disaster.

Ensuring that health specialists are readily available in these emergencies is a top priority. CRCS maintains a list of trained individuals that are on standby waiting to depart. In order to prepare these delegates, CRCS provides courses on Emergency Response, Community Health and Psychosocial support, and Field Practical training that gives hands-on experience. They must also complete a week of IMPACT training which provides an introduction to working with the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement.

If you’re interested in joining our team, click here to see the qualifications: Red Cross Careers

The deployment usually lasts four weeks and is often found to be challenging both mentally and physically.

Updated February 15, 2012