"In the face of some of the most severe climate-related disasters, Ford vehicle owners and residents in China are building safer and more resilient communities by learning essential emergency response skills," says Tina Zhang, communications supervisor for Ford China. With Ford Philanthropy's ongoing support, the ForDR Disaster Prevention and Response Training Course is tailored to address specific disaster and safety risks in cities throughout China.

Recently, 40 local car owners and community members gathered in Wuhan for a hands-on ForDR emergency rescue training session, in partnership with Ford Beyond, Ford's new brand in China for outdoor off-road enthusiasts. The training addressed critical needs, such as techniques for navigating water crossings and self-rescue from submerged vehicles—skills that are increasingly important as flooding becomes the leading cause of fatalities and property damage in the country.

One participant shared, "I had heard about scenarios like jammed doors or submerged vehicles but felt overwhelmed at the thought of facing them. The step-by-step procedures provided during the training are essential for anyone involved in off-roading to feel confident." The session also covered essential emergency skills, including the Heimlich maneuver, CPR, and AED use, and incorporated real-world outdoor scenarios for injury assessment and trauma care.

Looking ahead, the ForDR Disaster Prevention and Response Training Course will expand to cities like Beijing, Kunming, Zhengzhou, and Harbin, continuing to help residents improve their self-rescue and mutual-rescue skills. While this initiative strengthens local Chinese communities, it also calls on Ford employees worldwide to gain a deeper understanding in disaster prevention and response.