In Frederick, Maryland, people are always eager to help out worthy causes whenever they can.  Volunteerism is considered a privilege for those who are willing to give their time.  And while there are many organizations out there that focus on making the world a better place, the Red Cross remains the gold standard in providing relief and vital services to people who need them.

Let’s take a look at how regular citizens can help out like Red Cross volunteers in times of crisis.

Before helping out, people should receive training.  There are a number of one-day workshops out there that teach important methods in bleeding control, basic life support, and risk assessment.  Learning as much as you can is a great way to prepare for disaster.

Red Cross volunteers aren’t all search-and-rescue and life-saving operatives.  Some are adept at simply making people in disaster-stricken areas more comfortable.  For example, volunteers should know how to take care of children and the elderly, and assist them during evacuation procedures.

Everyone who’s ready to help out during a crisis needs to have the proper equipment.  First-aid kits are a must-have.  But there are other medical and non-medical equipment such as flashlights, flares, tactical gear (outfits), a Swiss army knife, and food and clothing, among other things.  Yes, being a volunteer is in many ways, quite like being a prepper.