Emergency Response Team

Overview

An ERT is a group of highly-trained RCMP members capable of employing specialized weapons, equipment, and tactics to resolve extremely high-risk situations. The potentially violent and often dynamic nature of these incidents requires a highly integrated and coordinated tactical response. ERT members, in addition to possessing advanced tactical skills, must also possess the self-discipline to function effectively in physically and psychologically stressful environments for extended periods of time. ERT operations can take place on land or at sea, both within Canada or abroad.

No matter where in Canada an RCMP member works, he / she can be part of an ERT. There is a minimum of one (1) team in every province and territory to provide support to front-line police personnel. There are both part-time and full-time ERTs, and the program is composed entirely of volunteers. Some of the functions an ERT may be asked to perform include, but are not limited to:

• Resolving incidents involving armed & barricaded persons;
• Aircraft interventions;
• Marine interventions (armed ship boarding);
• High-risk searches & arrests;
• VIP & witness protection duties;
• Covert surveillance and intelligence gathering;
• Rural tracking operations.

The mandate of the Emergency Response Team is to assist in the successful resolution of dangerous situations, thereby enhancing public safety and security. This is accomplished through teamwork, professionalism, advanced training and tactics.