Deployment preparation HEAT

HEAT at CADUS: Safety through preparation

In a world where it seems to be getting easier and easier to travel to war and crisis zones, the reality on the ground is still characterized by considerable risks and dangers. Nevertheless, we see time and again that doctors, technicians, journalists and other professionals set off for such regions unprepared – often with serious consequences.

This is where CADUS’ HEAT (Hostile Environment Awareness Training) comes in: intensive, practical training that prepares all volunteers and employees for deployment in dangerous and unstable regions. If capacities are available, these training courses are also open to external persons.

Next dates:

16. – 19.5.25

18. – 21.7.25

19. – 22.9.25

14. – 17.11.25

Info and registration:

here!

Operations in war and crisis zones are unpredictable. Unexpected situations can quickly arise: Checkpoints with armed militias, improvised shelters without sufficient infrastructure, sudden security threats or the need to evacuate injured people under time pressure. Without sound preparation, the risk quickly becomes incalculable. CADUS’ HEAT was developed to meet these special challenges with knowledge, skills and experience – in a protected environment that simulates an emergency as realistically as possible.

At the heart of HEAT is a comprehensive mission simulation that depicts realistic scenarios and simulates the entire course of a humanitarian mission. Topics include:

  • Preparation and travel in convoy: Participants learn how to move safely in dangerous areas, pass checkpoints and minimize risks on the route.
  • Building shelters and self-sufficiency: Practical exercises teach how to improvise and set up base stations, organize yourself under difficult conditions and use resources efficiently.
  • Medical care: A central focus is on patient care, especially in stressful and chaotic situations.
  • Evacuation planning: Detailed evacuation plans are drawn up and practiced – for emergencies in which every second counts.

A particular highlight of the training is the integration of elements from Live Action Role Play (LARP). Here, incidents are simulated as realistically as possible, just as they can occur at any time in real operations. Whether it’s heated group dynamics, a medical emergency or an unexpected security problem – the participants act under pressure and train their reactions to these challenges.

Targeted theoretical and practical training is integrated between the simulations in order to anchor what has been learned. These units teach and consolidate basic knowledge that is essential for deployment in crisis areas. At the same time, there is room for debriefing and reflection. This allows participants to process their experiences, learn from mistakes and prepare for the next part of the simulation.

Despite all the realism, the safety of the participants is always paramount. The training takes place in a safe environment that allows participants to make mistakes, learn and develop without putting themselves in danger. This approach not only promotes learning success, but also strengthens the participants’ self-confidence in the event of an emergency.

The HEAT is aimed at all CADUS volunteers and employees who need to be prepared for our missions in war and crisis zones. But also to organizations and individuals with whom CADUS works closely – from medical personnel to technicians and journalists.

For us, CADUS HEAT is more than just a training course – it is an indispensable preparation for deployment in dangerous and unpredictable regions, with the focus on reflection, for example on one’s own limits and needs. With realistic simulations, in-depth theory units and intensive reflection, it offers participants the opportunity to deal with the challenges of a mission in a safe environment. Because safety begins with good preparation.

What participants say: