©InfoIn times of disaster, the Red Cross has to respond quickly and in co-ordination with local agencies. Before disasters even happen, the Red Cross prepares by developing its capacity to respond.Our Overseas Branches prepare for disasters by training volunteers, developing their skills and resources.
Initial response
When disaster strikes, the local Red Cross Branch immediately responds in partnership with local government agencies. This can include evacuating people, setting up and running shelters and providing first aid.
If the scale of the disaster and the needs of the community outstretch the local capacity to respond, the local Branch initiates a regional response.
Regional response
The Red Cross has trained specialists in the Caribbean who can advise local volunteers and guide their response to disasters.
©InfoThe British Red Cross also keeps relief supplies in Panama which can be sent to any Overseas Branch, speeding up our response and helping people recover more quickly.
International response
If the disaster is bigger than the regional capacity to respond, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Geneva launches and co-ordinates an international response. Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies around the world mobilise disaster management delegates and resources to help the response and long-term recovery.
Read about disaster management programmes
Read about first aid in our Overseas Branches
Learn about HIV education in the Caribbean