Emergency Trauma Bag First Responder Course in Syria

Casualty toll for humanitarian workers continues to increase in conflict-affected countries like Syria. And as UN security officers are usually among the early groups of first responders to arrive at accidents and traumatic incidents, UNHCR in cooperation with the UNDSS implemented the Emergency Trauma Bag First Responder Course (ETB-FRC) for UN Security Officers in Syria.

For over six years now, the conflict in Syria continues to affect the lives of millions of people and leave them dependent on humanitarian assistance. Simultaneously, attacks on local humanitarian relief organization impacted by attacks that kill aid workers and destroy vital life-saving equipment and supplies. 147 humanitarian workers killed since the start of the Syria crisis, with 66 killed and 114 wounded

The ETB-FRC is an essential life-saving tool, it is specifically designed for field security officers and contains the appropriate equipment needed to provide first aid treatment to three moderately injured or one seriously injured victim.

“Humanitarian workers in Syria are prone to face life-threatening situation every day.” Said Joanna Morris, Senior Clinical Nurse at UNHCR, “This training will provide them with the skills needed for managing traumatic incidents with confidence.”

Over 40 UN staff members attended the intensive training. The primary purpose of the ETB-FRC and its associated training is to ensure that proper first responder care, life-saving tools and supplies are readily available to provide adequate first response emergency medical treatment to humanitarian workers who have sustained a trauma or other injury.

“Participants had the chance to practice the exercises in a scenario that simulate a real-life emergency situation.” Said Joanna Morris, “It helped them realize what they’re truly capable of and also realize the situations where referral for a medical specialist is necessary.”

The course instructors highlighted that the impact of this course will help preserve the lives of those who are working to ease the suffering in the biggest humanitarian crisis in our era.

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