The Nevis Disaster Management Office (NDMO) and several other national agencies held a five-day workshop on Emergency Care and Treatment (ECAT) in Disasters. The workshop targeted police and fire officials, NGOs and EMS personnel who play a critical role as first responders during mass casualty events or disaster situations, before advanced medical help can arrive. Too often, police or fire fighters who arrive early on the scene engage in crowd control, investigation and information collection. By taking this course, they can also take advantage of their early arrival and provide first aid and emergency care. Self-sufficiency in emergency situations is imperative for small countries like Nevis, as most often external assistance takes too long to arrive.