The Ukrainian Red Cross brings together emergency response teams for annual national training in the Khmelnytskyi region

The annual Ukrainian Red Cross National Emergency Response Team Training has recently concluded in the Khmelnytskyi region. This year, the event brought together around 200 participants from across Ukraine, who spent several days strengthening their practical skills, sharing experience, and practising coordinated emergency response.

The opening ceremony was attended by Maksym Dotsenko, President of the Ukrainian Red Cross, representatives of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, the Main Directorate of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in the Khmelnytskyi region, the Khmelnytskyi Regional Military Administration, and partners from the German Red Cross, Austrian Red Cross, Japanese Red Cross Society, British Red Cross and ICRC.

The training programme combined theoretical sessions, practical exercises and peer-to-peer knowledge exchange. Participants had the opportunity to learn about the different areas of work carried out by the emergency response teams, familiarise themselves with specialised vehicles and equipment, and further develop the skills required to operate effectively in emergency situations.

The final day of the training focused on practical simulations. Volunteers rotated through a series of themed training stations, practising realistic emergency response scenarios, including casualty assessment, the use of specialised equipment, evacuation procedures, search and rescue operations, radio communications, response to the aftermath of attacks, and rope rescue techniques.

The annual training provides an opportunity not only to gain new knowledge but also to ensure that teams are prepared to work together effectively in any situation. In emergencies, thorough preparation, practical skills and strong teamwork enable responders to make timely decisions and provide effective assistance to people in need.

The training was held with the support of the Norwegian Red Cross, of the International Committee of the Red Cross.