About 300 Women Attend Crisis Survival Camp in Estonia

Over the weekend, about 300 women without prior military training took part in a training camp organized by Estonia's women's voluntary defense organization Naiskodukaitse, focusing on practical crisis survival skills.

Instead of traditional lectures, the organizers emphasized hands-on activities. Participants learned first aid, field cooking, radio communication, familiarized themselves with various weapons, and practiced forest survival skills.

First aid instructor Maris Lillevali noted that most participants succeeded in the tasks, but some mistakes were made. She pointed out that airways were not always opened correctly, the injured were not fully placed in the recovery position, and sufficient pressure was not applied to stop bleeding.

Participants reported gaining many new insights. Natalia learned about modern fire-starting methods without matches, while Ksenia was surprised by the instructors' conclusion that during a serious crisis, being in the countryside is often safer than in the city.

Another important aspect of the camp was communal tent living, which helped participants quickly get to know each other and feel team spirit. Evgenia said that the atmosphere of mutual help and support was her main impression.

To make the camp more accessible, organizers allowed participants to bring children. For kids aged seven and older, a separate program was prepared with games and safety education activities.