Disasters can mean a substantial amount of work for first responders, so having community members who are better prepared to take care of themselves and others allows emergency personnel to focus on critical, life-threatening needs, said county emergency management personnel.
One way community members can help prepare themselves is through a Citizen Corps Council.
“It’s a group of volunteers that the Citizens Corp can provide training to, to assist in specific community safety efforts,” said Jessica Conley, Clarke County emergency management assistant.
Local council
The local Citizen Corps Council is in need of volunteers and will be holding a meeting at 6 p.m. tonight in the Clarke County Courthouse meeting room. Discussion topics will include an explanation of what Citizen Corps is, possible training opportunities and future activities of the Council.
"If anyone has questions about Citizens Corp, this is the time to ask," said Conley.
The meeting is open to former and current members of Citizen Corps, as well as anyone interested in joining.
Training opportunities may include community emergency response team (CERT) training, first aid, CPR and storm spotter opportunities as well as other training. Training and emergency supplies are purchased with state and federal grants.
Councils, who include a chairperson and co-chair person who will help spearhead the local efforts, will be appointed during the meeting.
Primary objectives
According to CitizenCorps.com, primary objectives of the councils are 'to match the needs of first responders with the skills and abilities of volunteers, educate the public on safety, help citizens take an active role in protecting themselves and spearhead efforts to offer new and existing volunteer opportunities, educational information and training courses.'
Citizen Corps was launched after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.
“In January 2002, president of the United States George W. Bush launched USA Freedom Corps, from which citizen corps was born, to capture the spirit of service that emerged in communities throughout the country following the terrorist attacks,” states the Citizens Corps website.
Who can volunteer?
There are no age requirements for volunteers, however, anyone under the age of 18 must obtain a parent/guardian's signature.
"It can be a family thing," said Joella Perry, with Veteran's Affairs. Conley and Perry said although a child may not be old enough to work in the field during a disaster they may be able to assist with efforts in their own home. For example, a child can learn more about the emergency-supply box at home and know how to use it. Or they can learn how to use a fire extinguisher or install a smoke detector.
"Kids are such fast learners," said Perry.
A diverse group of volunteers is needed and groups of volunteers like youth groups and 4-H are encouraged.
For more information visit www.citizenscorps.gov.