The National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) is significantly amplifying its disaster preparedness capabilities through an extensive volunteer training initiative. A cohort of 25 participants from diverse districts is currently undergoing an intensive four-day Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program, which commenced this Monday at NODS facilities.
This comprehensive training curriculum equips community members with vital skills to provide critical assistance during emergencies before professional first responders arrive. The program encompasses essential modules including advanced disaster management protocols, fire safety techniques, search and rescue operations, and telecommunications training with emphasis on VHF radio systems.
The current session represents the latest phase in NODS’ ongoing capacity-building campaign. Previous initiatives included a November training conducted over three consecutive weekends, followed by a specialized one-week certification program in Barbuda that successfully trained 20 participants last week.
During the Barbuda deployment, NODS Director Sherrod James convened with key Barbuda Council representatives to reinforce institutional collaboration. The strategic meeting included Council Chairman John Mussington, Health and Disaster responsible chairman Wayde Burton, and Council Secretary Ann Cannegieter. This dialogue focused on enhancing council members’ disaster management capabilities and strengthening bilateral coordination mechanisms.
Concurrently, NODS technical staff operationalized the newly constructed Barbuda Disaster Office by provisioning essential equipment and emergency supplies, ensuring the facility is fully equipped to handle crisis situations. This multi-faceted approach demonstrates Antigua and Barbuda’s proactive strategy in building community-level resilience against natural disasters and emergencies.