University Emergency Response Team

The Victoria University of Wellington Emergency Response Team provides light rescue and emergency response services to the University and wider community.

The team is made up of staff and student volunteers who train regularly so they can respond to major incidents when other emergency services are stretched or unavailable.

The team can provide a range of emergency services during a major incident:

• reconnaissance and survey of affected areas
• disaster surface search and rescue (light rescue)
• first aid and mass casualty triage
• liaison and radio communication links with University building cluster groups
• assistance to emergency services
• welfare services to the community.

Training

The University holds open training sessions so prospective members can come along and see if it's for them, before formally applying.

The team trains weekly during Trimester 1 and 2 on Monday nights from 5.30pm–7.30pm. There are also occasional formal weekend training courses that offer qualifications in subjects such as first aid and general rescue.

No previous experience is necessary, but we look for people who work well in a team, are willing to learn, and are committed to attending training. All training and relevant equipment is provided.

If you're keen to explore joining the University's Emergency Response Team, register your interest or contact safety@vuw.ac.nz

For staff who aren't able to commit to regular training, other opportunities to participate in emergency response at the University can be found on the staff intranet.