Introduction
There are many great opportunities to make important contributions including volunteering, donating, helping your neighbors, and being an active bystander.
Volunteer
- Join one of the 100 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) programs in Massachusetts. Search CERT programs by zip code to find one near you.
- Join a Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) program in Massachusetts.
- Join a Citizen Corps Partner Program.
- Get involved with the American Red Cross.
- Check with your local public safety officials to see if there are local opportunities to volunteer to support emergency response.
Donate
- Donate cash to a recognized disaster relief organization.
- Donate goods that are specifically requested or needed by recognized organizations.
- Learn more about how to donate responsibly: Donations and Volunteers
Help your Neighbors
- Be a good neighbor. Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions and those who may need additional assistance.
- Start a community preparedness project with the Corporation for National & Community Service toolkit.
Be an Active Bystander
- If you See Something, Say Something! Call 9-1-1 to report suspicious activity.
- Report emergency situations and request assistance by calling 9-1-1.
- Learn CPR and basic first aid. Learn how to apply a tourniquet and Stop the Bleed. Provide first aid assistance within your abilities.
- If appropriate and safe to do so, assist victims at the scene of an emergency. Learn what to do until help arrives at an emergency: Until Help Arrives.
- Help arriving first responders by sharing information you know about the incident, victims, or facility. Ask how you may help. Follow the instructions of officials.
- In an active shooter situation, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recommends that you Run, Hide, Fight.