A Response Group is basically a co-ordinated, volunteer group of experienced 4x4 owners who offer their services to the Emergency Services and Local Authorities in times of need. 4x4 Response Groups now exist all over the Country, some have existed for several years whereas others like Hertfordshire 4x4 Response are still new . Recent emergencies have shown the need for groups in all areas of the Country and have seen a rapid growth as a result. This may be in times of severe weather (e.g. snow, gales or floods), when travelling is made difficult or some other form of emergency during “normal” weather, when access to uneven terrain is required or when access to a well trained and coordinated team of vehicles with passenger and load carrying capability can assist an incident.