Emergency Response Team (RCMP) - Purpose and History of The ERT

Purpose and History of The ERT

The ERT assumed the tactical role held by the disbanded Special Emergency Response Team in 1993 to provide tactical response within Canada or abroad. The ERT is called in to deal with situations that are beyond the abilities of regular police personnel. Situations they are called in to deal with include:

• Serious Crime arrest warrants
• Hostage rescue
• Armed barricaded subjects
• Protective duties

The ERT dates back to 1976; prior to this, a Hostage and Rescue Patrol (HARP) team was called in to deal with like situations, though its duties mainly ended at the containment of the incident.

In order to apply to be an ERT member, the potential candidate must meet the following criteria:

1. Have a minimum of two (2) years of operational policing experience; 2. Attained a minimum score of 225 in his / her most recent PPC qualification; 3. Must be in good physical condition.

Prior to attending the ERT course, the applicant must undergo a standardized selection process with the ERT in his / her area which includes shooting and physical testing. The candidate will receive familiarization training on the MP5 and M16 firearms, in addition to additional pistol training. The current minimum physical standard is the following:

• 1.5 mile run in under 11 minutes;
• 40 consecutive and uninterrupted pushups;
• 40 sit-ups in one minute;
• 5 wide-grip lat pull-ups;
• Bench press 135 lbs.

This physical standard was replaced with a timed obstacle course effective April 1, 2009.

A psychological evaluation must also be completed before a member can attend the ERT course. Some of the requirements in this regard include not having phobias of water, heights or confined spaces.