Published: November 1, 2024
Fishtown, River Gee County – The Regional Office of the Liberia National Red Cross Society (LNRCS) in the Southeast has conducted a life-saving simulation exercise on road traffic accident response under the theme: “Building Resilience and Saving Lives with Focus on Strengthening Local Response to Road Traffic Accidents.”
This exercise is part of the Red Cross’s multi-hazard simulation plan within the three-year Green Inclusive and Resilient Liberian Communities (GIRL) project. Supported by the Embassy of Sweden through the Swedish Red Cross, the GIRL project actively enhances community resilience, promotes climate change adaptation, and builds local capacities in health and disaster risk reduction across Sinoe, River Gee, and Grand Kru counties.
During the opening of the exercise, Project Officer Mary-Anne Swope Kpangbai highlighted the unpredictability and potential severity of road traffic accidents, which often result in injuries or even fatalities. She emphasized that “the ability to respond quickly and effectively can significantly reduce the impact of such events,” adding that the LNRCS’s local structures play a crucial role in emergency response, particularly in providing first aid and supporting accident victims.
The simulation in Fishtown aimed to encourage timely response, immediate first aid, and strong community support in the event of road traffic accidents. It brought together local law enforcement, emergency health workers, motorcyclists, market vendors, local authorities, the media, and Red Cross volunteers from River Gee, Sinoe, and Grand Kru counties.
The exercise tested and strengthened community preparedness and response capabilities, with participants practicing essential skills to manage emergencies, provide life-saving assistance, and build resilience within their communities.
This coordinated exercise also fostered collaboration between the Red Cross, local law enforcement, healthcare workers, community stakeholders, and county government officials, all of whom played an active role in learning how to respond effectively to road traffic accidents.
“Today is a success, and we sincerely acknowledge your active participation, which demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing safety and response readiness in the community,” Mrs. Swope Kpangbai pointed out during the debriefing meeting with the participants. “We are grateful for the dedication and engagement from all participants,” she said, adding: “This exercise underscored the vital need for community collaboration in managing emergency incidents, saving lives, and strengthening resilience.”
The GIRL project remains an essential initiative in Southeast Liberia, working to build resilient communities equipped to face various hazards, including climate-related risks and health emergencies. The Liberia National Red Cross Society, through exercises like this, continues its mission to support Liberian communities in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies.
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