Hjelpekorpset aims to train its members to be prepared and ready to respond effectively and to spread awareness of general first aid. Hjelpekorpset aims to be a quality leader within the relevant areas; by caring and taking responsibility and initiative for people who need help and compassion.

Today, Hjelpekorpset has more than 15,000 volunteers, aged 17 and over. Hjelpekorpset is an extremely active organisation and each member spends a considerable number of hours yearly educating themselves and carrying out rescue work. There is a rescue corps on emergency standby at 335 locations across the country.

In peacetime, the rescue service in Norway, is led by the police. During the summer and winter, the police make use of Hjelpekorpset for large and demanding tasks, which enable members to demonstrate their first aid and physical capabilities. These capabilities are acquired through an educational programme and by spending time in the wilderness. Hjelpekorpset also has medical and emergency standby staff at summer and winter resorts, particularly in conjunction with the winter half-term break and Easter holidays. It is also present at sports events and competitions.

Hjelpekorpset organises courses in first aid for the general public and sees it as important to educate people in safety precautions that should be taken when at sea, in the forests and in the mountains.

Red Cross owns approximately 30 percent of the country’s ambulances. This is a considerable and valuable fleet of vehicles and represents a significant resource in Norway’s daily transport of the sick and injured.