INTERVIEW: HEAT means safety while traveling

It can be very nice in a foreign country. But a lot can also go wrong, especially when the circumstances become unstable. "In Gefahr" is the new book by Carsten Dombrowski, the experienced trainer compactly shares his knowledge on Hostile Environment Awareness Training (HEAT) and travel safety. A SPARTANAT Black Book that can save lives.

SPARTANAT: Carsten, for those traveling to countries with special travel challenges, it is advisable to undergo a so-called HEAT training, what do you learn there?

Carsten Dombrowski: The topics covered in a HEAT course depend on what is important to the customer. Since most trainings are modular, the content can be compiled based on a preliminary discussion. This is also a criterion to determine how the training company works. Unfortunately, most of them only offer a standard program and follow the concept of one size fits all.

Nonetheless, certain modules are always part of the program. Such as Mine Awareness, Behavior under fire and at a checkpoint, as well as First Aid.

SPARTANAT: Your new book "In Danger" is the most compact introduction to HEAT and provides many good tips for the road. What can be learned from reading it?

The book covers the topics of risk analysis and risk mitigation. The book is very practical and provides many useful tips for travelers. Checklists, packaging plans, and more. All the information provided comes from highly experienced personnel. People who know what they are talking about.

SPARTANAT: For whom is this book intended - and how should it be used.

The book is written for all those who travel privately or professionally to regions on this earth where the security situation is critical to desolate. Members of aid organizations, governmental and non-governmental organizations, i.e. IOs and NGOs. But there are also people from the private sector working for companies in such countries, good advice to improve their security. And of course, it also helps to reflect on the topic of security and travel in general.

SPARTANAT: Your most important tip for people traveling to dangerous areas?

Stay vigilant and prepared. Carelessness and naivety can have fatal consequences.

CARSTEN DOMBROWSKI spent many years as an instructor at the United Nations Training Center of the Bundeswehr, including in the context of HEAT courses conducted there for civilian participants.

In addition to his work as an instructor, he has been on various missions and assignments abroad, often in crisis areas. This allowed him to repeatedly experience the necessity of conducting Hostile Environment Awareness Training himself. Carsten leads the CAPSARIUS ACADEMY and personally shares his knowledge as a trainer there.

"In Danger" by Carsten Dombrowski, SPARTANAT Black Book 8, pocket-sized paperback, 176 pages, Euro 15.90

Also by Carsten Dombrowski: "Tactical Medicine", SPARTANAT Black Book 3, pocket-sized paperback, 136 pages, Euro 14.90

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