Community Involvement After a Disaster

Volunteers collecting donations

 

After a disaster strikes, the best way to make a difference is to get involved in your community. Even if you don’t have emergency response experience, you can still help. Many government organizations have online and in-person trainings. These trainings are a great first step to take if you want to support your community. After you participate in a training, volunteer. Contact an organization that works in your area to find out how you can help. There are many options out there. Read the tips below compiled by ServiceMaster Cleaning & Restoration Services to learn more about how you can help your community in Central New Jersey.

Training

You Are the Help Until Help Arrives

Many government organizations have emergency trainings for the public. You Are the Help Until Help Arrives is a training by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). It’s a great place to start if you don’t have a lot of experience with emergency or disaster response. Take a training well before a disaster strikes so that you’re prepared when you need to put your knowledge to the test.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

This training was also created by FEMA. However, it’s more thorough. The CERT is made up of hands-on practice using realistic scenarios. It’s usually taught by first responders. You should expect to learn how to perform basic medical actions, suppress a fire, identify symptoms commonly experienced by disaster victims and a whole lot more.

Volunteer

Citizen Corps

There are countless organizations you can volunteers with to help your community. One being the Citizen Corps. The Citizen Corps is made up of local councils that implement preparedness programs and connects local leaders to strengthen community response in the aftermath of a disaster. Learn more about the Citizen Corps here.

Prepareathon

The best way to limit damage when a disaster occurs is to prepare beforehand. FEMA hosts a prepareathon to help communities prepare. Engaging in an event like this one can improve your community’s ability to recover after a disaster.

Youth

You don’t have to be an adult to make a difference. Disasters often occur when children are in school, away from their primary caregivers. Help your child prepare for a disaster with FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Fact Sheet or encourage them to get involved with the Youth Preparedness Council. Practice responsible disaster preparedness with your child

ServiceMaster Cleaning & Restoration Services in Central New Jersey is your local damage restoration experts. We hope your community stays safe and disaster-free. If you experience water or fire damage, contact us at (800) 377-7166. Our expert technicians are available 24/7 for emergency restoration services in three New Jersey Counties: Middlesex, Hunterdon and Mercer. Our team has the experience and resources needed to exceed your expectations.

 

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