Youth Red Cross in Isselburg: Preparing Young Citizens for Emergencies

The German Red Cross (DRK) plays a vital role in community safety and preparedness, and its Youth Red Cross (JRK) division is a key component. In Isselburg, the JRK group provides training and experience to young people aged 6 to 19, equipping them with essential first aid and disaster response skills.

What Does the Youth Red Cross Do?

The Isselburg JRK group, led by Ursula and Joachim Juttner, consists of 20 children and young people supported by four permanent and three volunteer group leaders. Meetings are held every Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM, focusing on practical skills, and knowledge.

First Aid and Emergency Preparedness Training

Beyond recreational activities, the JRK emphasizes practical training. Members learn about the contents of a car first-aid kit, the importance of high-visibility vests, and receive regular first aid courses led by Torsten Niewenhuis. A core element of the training involves understanding specialized backpacks designed for different emergency scenarios.

Specialized Backpacks for Specific Needs

Group leader Ilona Kaiser explains that the JRK utilizes three color-coded backpacks:

• Pink Backpack: Designed for emergency childcare, containing items like diapers, baby food, and small toys for use after an accident, such as on a motorway.
• Brown Backpack: A “care backpack” equipped with warm or cold drinks and snacks for providing assistance during extreme weather conditions, like heatwaves or snowstorms. It also includes a blood pressure monitor.
• Red Backpack: Intended for first responders at accident or disaster sites, containing essential supplies for immediate treatment of injuries.

Collaboration and Community Involvement

The Isselburg JRK maintains a strong partnership with the local youth fire department. This collaboration includes a joint annual five-day camp at the Hollager Mühle youth leisure center near Osnabrück, and a shared initiative to collect used Christmas trees, with proceeds supporting the tent camp project. Joachim Juttner notes that initial concerns about competition between the two groups have not materialized, with young people freely choosing their preferred organization.

The JRK also participates in the annual Isselburg Broom Day with a significant group.

Camp Training and Exercises

The annual camp isn’t solely for leisure; it includes practical exercises on accident response, emergency calls, and simulated case studies.

Current Status and Call for Volunteers

The Isselburg JRK group is currently at full capacity with 20 members and is not accepting new admissions. Ursula and Joachim Juttner emphasize the urgent require for additional group leaders. Interested individuals can contact the JRK leaders on Wednesdays at the DRK building on Adolf-Donders-Alle.