ACK3 prepares NGOs to operate safely with HEAT Training

24/11/2024

HEAT: essential training to mitigate risks and protect personnel in complex terrain

Madrid, Spain – ACK3, a leader in training and risk management, launches HEAT (Hostile Environment Awareness Training) focused on the specific needs of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), aiming to strengthen security measures and fulfill the duty of care towards their staff and collaborators. As humanitarian crises, natural disasters, and armed conflicts increase worldwide, NGOs are more exposed than ever to high-risk environments.

ACK3’s HEAT training is designed to equip humanitarian workers with the necessary skills to mitigate risks, make critical decisions under pressure, and ultimately enhance their safety in the field. Through realistic simulations and immersive exercises, participants learn to deal with threats such as ambushes, kidnappings, and medical emergencies in environments where immediate assistance may not be available.

Fernando Mazarro, ACK3’s security specialist, states:
“NGOs operating in conflict zones or regions with high crime rates must be prepared for any eventuality. Our goal is to ensure that every team member feels empowered to make quick, safe decisions, not only to guarantee their survival but also to ensure the continuity of their humanitarian mission.”

 

ACK3: a strategic partner for NGOs in complex environments

Humanitarian work often involves challenges that go beyond the organization’s primary mission. Deployed personnel frequently encounter situations where the physical and psychological risks are high. Our collaboration with NGOs has been essential for organizations working in war zones, political crises, or natural disaster areas where security is uncertain, and threats are constant. At ACK3, we place a strong emphasis on creating a culture of safety within organizations. This means going beyond formal policies and procedures to integrate safety into the cultural DNA of NGOs, ensuring that everyone, from executives to volunteers, takes responsibility for their own safety and that of others.

ACK3 adopts a holistic approach that not only assists organizations in fulfilling their duty of care but also aligns with the principle of “Do No Harm.” This ensures that protective measures not only safeguard their personnel but also respect and protect the local communities in which they operate.

Positive engagement with local communities is essential for sustainable operations and long-term success. To support this, the course also focuses on local cultural awareness, designed to foster respectful cooperation and enhance relationships between our clients and the communities they serve. By equipping teams with the knowledge to navigate cultural nuances, ACK3 aims to minimize negative impacts and promote collaborative efforts that benefit both the organization and the local population.

Duty of Care: a key responsibility for NGOs

Duty of Care is a responsibility that NGOs cannot overlook. Ensuring the safety and well-being of their staff is not just a legal imperative but also a moral one. ACK3 understands the importance of fostering a true culture of safety within organizations, and HEAT training is a critical component in achieving this.

The training encompasses essential components such as risk assessment and management, equipping organizations with the tools to identify potential threats and develop effective security strategies. Additionally, the program covers first aid skills tailored for remote areas, enabling personnel to handle medical emergencies when external assistance is unavailable. Finally, stress management and resilience training prepares staff psychologically to cope with the constant pressure inherent in conflict zones, ensuring their safety and well-being while they serve vulnerable communities.

 

Protect your staff with ACK3 

ACK3 is currently expanding its HEAT training offerings to NGOs seeking to better protect their teams and meet their Duty of Care obligations in high-risk environments. Organizations that have already trusted ACK3 have seen a marked improvement in the preparation and safety of their field personnel.

At ACK3, we firmly believe that safety should not be an option but a priority. NGOs operating in complex areas should consider HEAT training as an investment in their team’s security and the success of their mission.

Are you interested in our HEAT training?

At ACK3, we offer a high-quality course designed to prepare your team for hostile environments. Ask us about different formats and adapted conditions for NGOs. Learn more and ensure your team’s safety by visiting the following link: