Highlight the role of volunteer groups in prevention, preparedness, awareness and coordinated response.

Volunteers play a vital role in civil protection. Their knowledge of local conditions, connection with communities and ability to support awareness, prevention and response activities make them an essential part of resilient risk-management systems.

However, effective volunteering requires more than willingness to help. It depends on appropriate training, clear coordination, access to reliable information, suitable tools and strong links with public authorities and professional civil protection structures.

VOLUNTEER II places particular emphasis on strengthening the role and operational capacity of volunteer organisations. The project supports training and empowerment activities, educational resources, joint demonstrations, technological tools and field equipment designed to improve preparedness for flood and multi-hazard risks.

The project also promotes wider public awareness of the contribution volunteers make before, during and after emergency situations. By involving communities and encouraging participation, volunteer networks can help build a stronger culture of prevention and shared responsibility.

Resilience is created through cooperation. When volunteers, authorities, researchers and local communities work together, information travels faster, preparedness improves and response mechanisms become more coordinated and effective.