Since October 7^th and amid growing security concerns, United Hatzalah has been enhancing its emergency readiness and response capabilities. This includes training for extreme scenarios, evaluating various systems, improving internal coordination, and preparing for potential multi-front conflicts, missile attacks, and blackout situations.

Communication Blackouts

Dov Maisel, United Hatzalah’s VP of Operations, emphasized the organization’s operational preparedness for communication blackouts, highlighting their volunteers’ readiness to actively patrol and assist civilians.

“It is crucial for the public to know that in the event of communication failures, United Hatzalah volunteers have been instructed to patrol the streets with their emergency equipment and provide assistance to anyone in need,” said Maisel.

Zohar Eli, Director of Dispatch and Operational Technology at United Hatzalah, explained: “90% of our branches nationwide have been equipped with special communication kits capable of operating during nationwide power and internet outages.”

“We’ve acquired satellite communication units to maintain operational continuity between regional branches and national headquarters,” Eli continued, “and command and control units for efficient response in extreme scenarios. Additionally, we’ve bolstered our emergency call centers with dedicated teams for immediate dispatch.”

Mass Casualty Events

In preparation for potential mass casualty events, United Hatzalah has distributed 100 multi-casualty incident (MCI) kits to 90 locations, particularly in border areas.

These kits will enable local responders, in an extreme situation where they may be cut off from reinforcements for an extended period, to treat multiple patients without running out of equipment.

Protective Equipment

United Hatzalah has distributed more than 2,000 bulletproof vests and helmets to first responders and ambulances nationwide.

This equipment will help protect the volunteers and enable them to continue providing life-saving treatment even under extreme circumstances.

Mobile Emergency Pop-Up Medical Centers

Learning from the October 7th events, United Hatzalah acquired unique mobile emergency pop-up medical centers that can be set up within seconds. Each pop-up medical center includes a forward command post, a medical equipment center, field clinics for treating the wounded, and a situation room.

Close Cooperation with Hospitals

In extreme scenarios, specially trained volunteers will be dispatched to hospitals to serve as liaisons between field responders, United Hatzalah’s emergency center, and hospital staff. This will ensure that hospitals are not overloaded, and that each patient can receive the fastest and most accurate care possible.

This pilot program has been coordinated with several hospitals including Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya, Poriya Medical Center in Tiberias, Carmel Medical Center and Rambam Hospital in Haifa, HaEmek Medical Center in Afula, and Ziv Medical Center in Safed.

Large-Scale Emergency Drill

In December, United Hatzalah conducted a large-scale emergency drill in northern Israel, simulating a combined missile attack and terrorist infiltration scenario. Approximately 200 EMTs, paramedics, and doctors participated, along with 20 ambulances, four mobile intensive care units, command vehicles, off-road vehicles, ATVs, and drones. The highly successful drill also included unexpected challenges to simulate real-life scenarios.

Vigilant and Adaptable to All Emergency Situations

Eli Beer, Founder and President of United Hatzalah, said: “We are vigilant and adaptable to all emergency situations, continuously training our dedicated volunteers to ensure they are prepared for anything. United Hatzalah stands ready to assist anywhere in the country, with professional doctors, paramedics, and EMTs equipped with the best medical equipment.”

“We’ve enhanced our ambulance and emergency vehicle coverage in both the north and south,” continued Beer, “ensuring a 24/7 response capability across all regions. While we hope our services are rarely needed, we are always ready to deliver swift and effective aid for the benefit of Israel’s citizens.”