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Emergency Response Team (ERT)

An interactive guide to the key roles, responsibilities, and coordination that make for an effective crisis response.

Meet the Team

An Emergency Response Team is a coordinated group of specialists. Click on any role below to discover their specific responsibilities, training, and the equipment they use to manage a crisis effectively.

Emergency Response Team Members: Roles and Responsibilities

Select a role above to see the details.

Team-Wide Operations & Preparedness

Team members are selected based on their skills, experience, and ability to perform under pressure. Key attributes include reliability, calmness, and strong communication. The process often includes interviews, background checks, and physical fitness tests.

Training is continuous and includes:

  • Initial Training: Courses on the Incident Command System (ICS), first aid, CPR, and hazard-specific protocols.
  • Drills and Exercises: Regular, realistic simulations of emergency scenarios to practice skills and identify areas for improvement.
  • Specialized Training: Advanced training for roles like hazardous materials handling or technical rescue.

ERTs use a wide range of equipment tailored to potential threats. Key resources are categorized as follows:

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Hard hats, safety vests, gloves, eye protection, and specialized gear like HazMat suits.
  • Communication: Two-way radios, satellite phones, and mobile command centers.
  • Medical Supplies: First aid kits, trauma bags, and automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
  • Rescue & Fire Tools: Ropes, harnesses, cutting tools, fire extinguishers, and hoses.
  • Logistical Support: Vehicles, generators, lighting, and temporary shelters.

Effective coordination is achieved through the Incident Command System (ICS), a standardized management framework ensuring efficient and effective incident management. The workflow is systematic:

1️⃣

Command Post

A central hub where the IC and section chiefs operate and make decisions.

2️⃣

Briefings

Regular meetings to share information, update plans, and assign tasks.

3️⃣

Communication

Clear, concise communication using established radio channels and terminology.

4️⃣

Documentation

Meticulous records of all actions, decisions, and resources used.