A Red Cross training session on March 3 and 4 is aiming to prepare northern volunteers for future evacuations.
The session will be held in Prince Albert and is open to anyone. Representatives with the health organization say participants need to get in touch soon if they want to make the March event.
“If they want to take the training, they really need to get in touch with me right now,” said Sue Laflamme, the Red Cross outreach coordinator in Prince Albert. “If they have not previously filled out an application to be a Red Cross volunteer, that’s a bit of a process.”
Anyone seeking info is encouraged to call or email the Prince Albert Red Cross.
In addition to the application, applicants will have to complete a criminal record check and vulnerable sector check, and complete an online course. Participants who complete the program in March will be added to the organization’s roster of active volunteers and may be asked to assist in evacuations across the province.
Laflamme noted that northern regions are more susceptible to certain emergencies and that responders are needed year-round.
“The people who are living in northern communities are the most affected by forest fires in the summer and flooding in the east side of the province,” said Laflamme. “We have more disasters during the summer, but we are always prepared for responding to disasters. The sooner people get into the training and learning about the Red Cross, the better.”
Attendees of the event in March will be compensated for their travel and accommodation expenses by the Red Cross.
(PHOTO: Red Cross logo. Photo courtesy of Facebook.com/canadianredcross)