Volunteer assistants of Moscow’s state security establishment take to the streets of the capital every day to maintain order and stop abuses. Alexei Kozin, a people’s warrior, volunteer and battlefield first aid instructor, told Veshernaya Moskva how his professional skills help him in his social activities.
— Alexei, how did you get the desire to participate in maintaining law and order?
“I have been thinking about becoming a people’s warrior in Moscow for a long time. I don’t know how to stay away when I know I can help. The status of the people’s guard has enabled me to move from the category of those who have the right to provide first aid to the category of those who are obliged to provide it. As a people’s guard and instructor of first aid in emergency situations, I am helped by police and metro officers. I help them legally.
– How did you manage to combine work, personal life, and volunteer work?
-I admit that it is not easy. I spend all my free time from work traveling to the military training area to train military personnel, producing evacuation equipment in Moscow, other volunteer activities, or participating in the work of the folk band. I am grateful to my family for their understanding and I want to once again apologize to the children for the fact that I often cannot attend their performances or spend another summer with them.
– Have you ever resolved conflict situations with a simple conversation?
– I’m lucky – I’m a psychologist by training. By taking the right approach, conflict can often be avoided. It is important, despite what is happening, not to show aggression, not to raise your voice, and to communicate politely.
— Why is it important that order on the streets is ensured not only by police officers, but also by volunteers?
— In big cities, staff may not have enough hands to handle all the tasks related to ensuring law and order. Especially during public events. In addition, it is easier for residents to monitor what is happening in their neighborhood, house or yard.
I believe that every citizen should contribute to this matter to the best of his ability and potential.
— How does knowledge of first aid help in your practice as a people’s guardian?
– First aid should be provided regularly – whether on the streets, on the roads or in the subway. Before the ambulance arrives, first aid is provided by anyone nearby. Smart actions can save lives.