Introduction:
Our focus at DPART is the community's role in Disaster Response and our commitment to grassroots level preparedness today for a better response come tomorrow. With proper awareness, training and equipment affected communities can respond to and mitigate hazards effectively for up to 72 hours post incident. In developed countries such as the United States the Government actively supports the development of "Community Emergency Response Teams" which act as an reserve voluntary force supporting emergency services stretched thin during a major disaster. When not helping out in disasters they play a vital role in the development and safety of their community.
However, because of Pakistan's status as a developing country and low resources, the DPART program was initiated entirely by local volunteers and some emergency responders. The entire program and team is self sufficient - the team buys and maintains its own tool and equipment cache.
Using the FEMA C.E.R.T. (Community Emergency Response Team) as a template DPART was formed on similar principals. To date it's volunteers have helped train members of the community, assisted local law enforcement and emergency responders during the Kashmir earthquake, and continues to provide support when an official request for assistance is received.
Since its formation DPART has been working to build relationships with emergency services and non-governmental organizations including the Punjab Emergency Ambulance Service Rescue1122. Islamabad Police Emergency Services Unit (Rescue 15) Islamabad Police Rescue 15 were one of DPART's first partners. Their assistance provided the program a much needed boost.
DPART's future aims include developing the capacity of volunteers within the Pakistani voluntary sector in organizations such as the National Volunteer Movement of Pakistan NVM-Pakistan.
Training:
In late 2005 DPART was kindly given permission by FEMA to use the CERT training material for the training of volunteers. Our present training system is based on the FEMA CERT Training Manual and the Urban "Light Role" Search and Rescue [Category 1] training regimen. Members are also trained in Disaster Preparedness, Fire Suppression, CPR+ Conducting Disaster Medical Operations, Psycho-Social Care "Disaster Psychology" via training partners.
At the end of the 6 week training course students have an opportunity to practice and display their skills at a simulation session. Successful candidates receive the Basic Certificate and will either be assigned to a local team or asked to start a local team where one does not exist.
DPART Structure:
Program Coordinator(1)- Location: Islamabad - is responsible for the success of the program and ensures administration, training and operational resources are available as well as maintaining a constant link between team leaders, emergency services and partners.
Team/Task Force Leader (2)- Locations: Islamabad/Rawalpindi - is responsible for a team of 6 volunteers in any given area. Each task force has its own team leader. The Team Leader communicates with the Program Coordinator and ESU on scene.
Search and Rescue Component (8) - Locations: Islamabad/Rawalpindi- responsible for the ground search and rescue of survivors. The search and rescue component also provides minor fire suppression support. Communication is with the Team Leader.
Medical Component (4) - Locations: Islamabad/Rawalpindi.- each team has a dedicated medical component designed to conduct triage and provide first aid as necessary. The medical component is responsible for the location and establishment of a triage/treatment camp. Communication is with the Team Leader.
Logistics and Equipment:
Being a voluntary organization finances are low however DPART maintains a cache of equipment and tools. Logistical support is provided by team members.
Continuing support for members:
After qualifying, members are provided with ID cards and certificates, however, they have to pay for the cost of their uniform and their personal responder (kit). Qualifying members are offered the option to progress throughout their voluntary careers with DPART as Team Leaders, Instructors or Component Specialists. Members can also gain certifications in Incident Command Systems, Hazmat Awareness, Basic Life Support "Plus" and Shelter/Camp Management.
DPART works hard to partner with emergency services and highlight the important role that properly trained, deployed, and managed volunteers can make to a rescue or relief effort. Where physical interaction is deemed too dangerous, DPART volunteers can provide Psycho-Social Care "Stress Debrief", establish and assist in treatment camps, or manage spontaneous volunteers.
