Canary Islands Emergency Cooperation Agreement with EMERLAN

Overview

The Canary Islands government has officially published a new cooperation agreement with the Association of Volunteers in Emergencies and Rescue of Lanzarote (EMERLAN). This pact aims to integrate EMERLAN into the Canary Island Emergency System, allowing volunteers to participate actively in civil protection and emergency responses across the region.

The agreement, signed on April 22, 2026, grants EMERLAN access to:

• Emergency coordination centers
• Training programs
• The regional Emergency and Security Network (RESCAN)

Formalization and Roles

It formalizes the volunteers' role, enabling them to be activated through the Emergency Coordination Center (CECOES 1-1-2) and participate in response teams alongside official agencies.

Emphasis on Voluntarism and Volunteer Protections

"EMERLAN members will operate on a purely volunteer basis without employment or contractual ties to the regional authorities."

The agreement emphasizes voluntarism and establishes provisions for volunteers' protection, including potential compensation for damages during emergency activities.

Impact and Community Benefits

This move strengthens the region’s emergency preparedness by:

• Formalizing cooperation with key community volunteers
• Enhancing capacity for rapid, effective responses to crises

For residents, this means:

• A more coordinated and community-driven approach to safety
• Particularly during natural disasters or major incidents

It highlights the importance of civic engagement in regional safety efforts.