During a crisis there are many issues that must be dealt with quickly. One technique for managing the expected workload is to form an Emergency Response Team or ERT. This group may be called on at any time to respond to perform a variety of duties from assisting with an evacuation to directing traffic or helping with a rescue. Often, several people are assigned to the team so as to insure the availability of trained staff on short notice.

Volunteer Safety Wardens make up a key part of the ERT.