DISASTER TRAINING
Training is the single most important tool in preparing to be a Disaster Volunteer. The Cincinnati Area Chapter is committed to providing the best training for both local and national disaster responses. The chapter has over 40 nationally certified instructors with years of experience in disaster response and relief. We strongly encourage everyone to participate in trainings whether it pertains to your activity or not. Follow the information below to get started on your training today!
Introductory Classes
All Disaster Volunteers (DAT & DSHR) must take the following online introductory classes:
American Red Cross Volunteer Orientation at:
http://www.redcross.org/general/0,1082,0_153_,00.html
The Orientation is the first class you need to take to become an American Red Cross volunteer. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.
Introduction to Disaster Services at:
http://www.redcross.org/flash/course01_v01/
This is the prerequisite class for all additional disaster trainings, which are mandatory for those interested in becoming a Disaster Services volunteer (i.e., working on local and national disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina). It takes about 1 hour to complete.
First Aid and CPR Classes
Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers are required to maintain First Aid and CPR certifications. First Aid certifications are good for 3 years; CPR must be repeated every year. DSHR volunteers are not required but are strongly encouraged to complete the training.
These classes are now offered as “blended” classes – with online portions followed by in-class skills demonstrations. Please remember that First Aid and CPR classes are FREE for Disaster Volunteers. For instructions on how to register for either class as a Disaster Volunteer call the Northeast Office @ (513) 792-4000.
Disaster Action Team (DAT) Training
Prior to being assigned to a DAT, volunteers need to complete the Team Training and Emergency Assistance Principles course, offered online. For access to this training, call the Disaster Specialist II @ (513) 579-3010. DAT members should also take the courses listing below.
Required within 1st year:
- Intro to Disaster Services (on-line)
- National Orientation to the American Red Cross (on-line)
- Team Training and Emergency Assistance Principles
- Cincinnati Area Chapter Orientation
- Working with Total Diversity
- CPR/First Aid
- Mass Care
Additional Recommened Classes for all DAT Members:
- Driver Training
- Defensive Driving
- Client Casework
- Logistics
- Logistics Simulation
- Shelter Operations
- Sheter Simulation
- Disaster Assessment
Online Learning (Learning Management System or LMS)
The Red Cross has created a resource to complete some training online. Activities such as Disaster Assessment, Public Affairs and Staff Services have overviews and basic training. Please note that many courses are blended learning, meaning a portion of the class is online while the remaining section is instructor led. Please contact Kevin Quatman if you have any questions regarding the online training.
Click Here to start your online training today.
For more information on Disaster volunteer training, contact
Kevin Quatman 513-579-3081 Disaster Services Human Resources (DSHR)
Chris Wais 513-579-3017 Ready When The Time Comes (RWTC)
Jason Oyer 513-579-3010 Disaster Action Team (DAT)
Kathy Schlechter 513-300-2519 Coordinator of Disaster Training