Description 

Mass Casualty Disasters is an instructor-led and video-supported course designed to prepare employees and volunteers to plan for and respond to mass casualty disasters. It combines a series of presentations and class discussions using real-world examples to explore the four types of mass casualty disasters and the planning and response role of the Red Cross as part of an overall community response. This interactive learning experience culminates in a thought-provoking simulation of a mass casualty event where participants form teams, representing a Red Cross chapter, and must make decisions during the first 24 hours following the disaster event. 

Purpose 

The purpose of this course is to prepare Red Cross employees and volunteers to provide a more effective initial response to a mass casualty disaster. 

Learning Objectives 

After completing this course, participants will be able to— 

• Define mass casualty disasters.
• Describe the Red Cross categories of mass casualty disasters.
•  Describe the characteristics of the community response.
• Explain the Red Cross response to each category of disaster.
•  Identify planning and preparedness activities that will strengthen the chapter response. 

Audience 

Participants will be Red Cross employees and volunteers who may respond to a mass casualty disaster in their own community. 

Prerequisites 

• Fulfilling Our Mission: Translating Your Compassion Into Community Action (DSGEN200A, Rev. 09/07) 

Length The course is 8 hours long including breaks. Attendance the entire time is required.