Alarühmade

Alarühmade is the Estonian term for alarm groups, small local units organized to provide rapid, coordinated response during emergencies. The name combines alar- (alarm, warning) and rühm (group). In usage, alarühmade are typically formed as local, often volunteer, teams that operate within the broader civil protection and emergency-management framework in Estonia.

Functions and roles of alarühmade include quick notification and communication with authorities and the public, initial situation assessment, basic first aid and evacuation assistance, crowd management, and logistical support for professional responders. They help disseminate warnings through local networks, assist in shelter and casualty-avoidance efforts, and maintain operational readiness until specialized teams arrive. Members generally receive foundational training in safety, first aid, communications, and incident cooperation, and participate either on a voluntary basis or as part of a semi-professional arrangement.

Organization and scope of alarühmade vary by municipality. They are designed to complement professional emergency services rather than replace them, working in close coordination with national bodies such as the Rescue Board (Päästeamet) and, where applicable, the Defence League (Kaitse­liit). The exact mandate, procedures, and responsibilities of alarühmade are defined by national civil-defense regulations and local disaster-risk management plans, with regular drills to maintain readiness.

See also: Kaitseliit, Päästeamet, civil defense, disaster risk management.