CERT

Androscoggin Unified EMA is the support agency for the local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

The CERT Program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.

The Androscoggin County CERT meets every last Monday of the month at the EOC at 5:30 PM.

Become a CERT volunteer.

CART

Some members of the Androscoggin County CERT are particularly interested in forming a County Animal Rescue Team (CART). During an emergency pets and livestock can be as much at risk as their human counterparts. Trained volunteers are needed to assist emergency workers to both rescue and shelter animals.

Members of the CART will first participate in CERT training and also take specialized classes in animal sheltering and animal rescue.

ARES/RACES

The Amateur Radio Emergency Services/Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services group for Androscoggin County is also coordinated through the Androscoggin Unified EMA.
People interested in emergency communication using amateur (ham) radio can volunteer to assist during an emergency. We utilize communicators in the field, at our office, at shelters and in area hospitals to assist public safety during a crisis.