Getting involved and volunteering in your community’s disaster and emergency preparedness efforts is an important step towards building a strong foundation for recovery capabilities. Knowing which ways are effective and how to join are essential first steps. Outlined are ways that people of all ages can get involved in helping their communities prepare.

• Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) trains volunteers to prepare for the types of disasters that their community may face. Find your local CERT and volunteer!
• Learn about the hazards most likely to affect your community and their appropriate responses.
• Every community has voluntary organizations that work during disasters. See what organizations are active in your community.
• Encourage students to join Teen CERT so they can respond during emergencies.
• Your community needs YOU! Find youth volunteer and training opportunities to help your community.
• Finding support from friends, family, and community organizations can help kids cope with disasters.
• Take classes in lifesaving skills, such as CPR/AED and first aid, or in emergency response, such as CERT.
• Check in with neighbors to see how you can help each other out before and after a storm.

As always, if you “See Something, Say Something”. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. To report suspicious activity, call 855-RPRT-2-S4 (855-777-8274).