Crisis Response Teams - More Information

From Firefighter/Specialist Brian Humphrey:

Dear Friend of the LAFD:

The Los Angeles Fire Department is actively encouraging local residents to join the City of Los Angeles Crisis Response Team volunteer program.

http://www.lafd.org/crt.htm

Crisis Response Teams (CRT) are groups of volunteers on call to provide immediate, short-term on-scene support and guidance to families, neighbors, witnesses and survivors traumatized by a serious injury, death or violent crime.

"C-R-T" should not be confused with the LAFD's popular C-E-R-T disaster preparedness program.

Following comprehensive training, CRT volunteers work in pairs to provide humanitarian assistance to those exposed to emotional and physical trauma.

By serving as an information and referral resource and liaison between the family and public safety or health personnel, CRT volunteers allow Police, Firefighters, Paramedics, Hospital Emergency Staff and the Coroner to resume operations or respond to other emergencies without overlooking the important crisis support needs of those impacted by the event.

A series of mandatory training workshops will begin on January 17,2006. They will involve classroom lecture, guest speakers, discussion and role-playing. This training is designed to help volunteers develop the skills, knowledge, attitudes and relationships necessary to function effectively as a City of Los Angeles CRT volunteer.

All CRT volunteers must be at least 21 years old and in good physical condition. Volunteers are kindly asked to make a minimum one-year time commitment, if possible. Because CRT volunteers must operate in an environment of trust at the scene of an emergency, they are asked to submit an application, and will be fingerprinted for requisite
background checks.

Due to the sporadic timing and diverse nature of deployment, CRT Volunteers must also have direct access to a motor vehicle, and must maintain a valid California Driver's License and valid California approved motor vehicle insurance.

To learn more, we encourage you to contact CRT Manager Jeff Zimerman at (213) 978-0697, or visit the CRT information page at:

www.lafd.org/crt.htm


Respectfully Yours in Safety and Service,

Brian Humphrey
Firefighter/Specialist
Public Service Officer
Los Angeles Fire Department

LAFD Home Page: http://www.lafd.org
LAFD News Blog: http://www.lafd.org/blog.htm