Ukrainian Red Cross Society volunteers hone mountain search and rescue skills

Volunteers from the Ukrainian Red Cross Society's rapid response teams have been honing their mountain search and rescue skills through large-scale training exercises. The Carpathian Maneuvers, held in the Ivano-Frankivsk region for the fourth time, brought together 75 volunteers from eight URCS teams and three mountain search and rescue units from the State Emergency Service.

Over the course of four days, participants engaged in various scenarios, including searching for individuals in forests and mountains, mastering rock rescue techniques, using rope systems and self-belaying, and transporting injured persons across challenging terrain. Additionally, they focused on improving navigation skills using GPS, drones, and specialized equipment, as well as providing first aid and psychological support.

The training also placed emphasis on effective communication, coordination, and cooperation among teams during joint operations. These exercises aim to enhance the volunteers' abilities, facilitate experience sharing, and prepare them for coordinated action in challenging conditions where decision-making is crucial.