CERT - Community Emergency Response Teams

Triage kits are used and needed by CERT teams, first responders, and other groups. Triage kits are similar to traditional first aid kits but they are designed to be used in a major disaster that involves multiple victims. The term triage defines the process of assessing injuries to determine which are in need of the fastest attention. This system is used anytime help is needed in a remote area on rough terrain or when there are more people in need of assistance than there are rescue personnel. The goal is to treat as many patients as quickly as possible.

This particular type of first aid kit will contain many of the familiar emergency supplies that will be needed to treat most minor injuries plus some specialized equipment that is useful when sorting through multiple patients. Victims are sorted into groups signifying the severity of injuries. Those people with minor injuries can wait awhile for treatment. People tagged as delayed need treatment at a medical facility but transport can be delayed. Immediate cases need transportation to the hospital as soon as possible. Victims who are deceased need to be packed in body bags and transported to the morgue. Disaster supplies in the kit will include safety vests to designate safety workers and colored tape to identify patient status. A manual will be included with these medical first aid kits for guidance during an emergency operation.

This specialized first aid kit can also include manuals outlining various emergency procedures, including CPR and the proper treatment for a variety of minor injuries. A couple portable stretchers that can be quickly assembled to evacuate the seriously injured will also come in handy during a crisis.

Natural disasters and terrible accidents are situations no one ever wants to go through. When tragedy strikes, there is always a better chance for a positive outcome with the proper rescue equipment ready to go. Solar blankets and other first aid supplies can make a big difference if there is ever a disaster in your community and you are pressed into service.

All first responders will be familiar with analyzing injuries and prioritizing the need for treatment or transportation. During an earthquake, hurricane or flood, volunteers are often needed to help those who are injured. Learning the basics of offering assistance is something that everyone should take the time to do. There is no way of knowing when this knowledge can be used to save a life. Our country needs additional CERT groups, individuals, and corporations to be prepared and assist during crises.