On volunteerism and ways to help in times of crisis

 

While Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders is first and foremost an expert on safety and health, he believes that lending a hand and volunteering are integral parts of a community's overall betterment. He points out that countless nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and private corporations have, throughout the years, took it upon themselves to make a difference in the world. 

Image source: redcrossyouth.org

 

For today's blog, Martin Lloyd Sanders looks at volunteerism, which he considers a privilege for those willing to give their time, and the many ways people can help out in times of crisis. To put things in context, he mentions the global organization Red Cross as his blueprint for today's blog discussion– since the Red Cross to this day remains the gold standard in providing relief and vital services to people who need them.

The first step in volunteering to help in times of crisis is to receive training. And Martin Lloyd Sanders notes that this is not some training that can be done online. There should be a practical aspect of it wherein volunteers go through simulations. There are workshops and seminars given by organizations everywhere on subjects such as bleeding control, basic life support, and risk assessment. 

Image source: nytimes.com

Second, volunteers need to realize that to serve in times of crisis can involve a broad range of activities, from search-and-rescue and life-saving operations to assisting children and the elderly evacuate areas and making them comfortable.

Finally, Martin Lloyd Sanders mentions that when a person has had proper training and a good idea of the things they have to do, they have to have the proper equipment. The proper equipment ranges from first-aid kits to flashlights, flares, tactical gear (outfits), a Swiss army knife, and food and clothing, among other things.

Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., has more than a decade of service in the occupational safety and health sector. He possesses extensive experience in biological defense activities and infectious disease outbreak investigation. Learn more about him and his expertise by checking out this page.

Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Homeland Security, or the United States Government.