As extreme weather events become more frequent in Canada, knowing how to respond in an emergency is more important than ever. From scorching heat waves to dangerous cold snaps, wildfires, and severe storms, climate change is increasing the risk of injuries and health complications. 

From coordinating supplies, the vehicle fleet and laundry runs, to solving unexpected challenges daily, the Logistics Field Operations Team (FOT) makes sure everyone gets what they need during the 2025 Manitoba Wildfires response. Their work may be behind the scenes, but it is a cornerstone of every successful operation with the Canadian Red Cross.

Self-care isn’t just about taking bubble baths or unplugging once in a while—it’s about building long-term habits that protect your mental and emotional well-being. One of the most effective tools for this is Psychological First Aid (PFA). It helps you understand stress, build resilience, and take control of your well-being every day.

In Riding Mountain National Park, where peace can meet sudden emergencies, Duty Officers — Reid Ahntholz and Bradley Bator — became real-life heroes. During a busy July weekend, they responded fast to a visitor’s cardiac arrest on Lakeshore Trail. Using CPR, an AED, and their skills, they saved a life. Their actions turned a tragedy into hope — a true testament to First Aid training.

Olga works as the receptionist at the Canadian Red Cross in Hamilton. Her day started like any other day until everything changed suddenly. She came across someone showing obvious signs of opioid poisoning, and she did not freeze or fear. Instead, she reached for something stronger: a naloxone kit.

A social delegate with the Réseau d’entraide des délégués sociaux et des déléguées sociales of the Fédération des travailleurs et travailleuses du Québec (FTQ), Donald has been coordinating FTQ’s workplace campaign in support of the Canadian Red Cross since 2002. He was directly affected by the 2023 wildfires in Chibougamau and was forced to evacuate his home that summer.

I’ve just returned from a trip to West Bank to speak with colleagues from the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS). Despite the difficult circumstances the teams in West Bank and Gaza face every day, the staff and volunteers at PRCS remain incredibly committed to their humanitarian objectives. 

During a recent trip to meet with the leadership of Magen David Adom (MDA) – the Red Cross of Israel – we spoke about the incredible power of volunteers. Like in Canada, the work done by MDA is made possible by the staff and volunteers who give of their time, even in incredibly difficult circumstances.