Volunteer Opportunities

We have several opportunities for citizens to volunteer:

• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT): We educate people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and train 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.

• Chesapeake Fire Department Auxiliary: The Chesapeake Volunteer EMS (Emergency Medical Services) and Chesapeake Volunteer Fire organizations merged in January 2003 to form one volunteer organization which is a branch of the Chesapeake Fire Department. Our mission is to compliment the career department, provide EMS coverage at special events and public education.

• Chesapeake Medical Reserve Corps (CMRC) Program: Coordinates the skills of practicing and retired physicians, nurses and other health professionals as well as other citizens interested in health issues, who are eager to volunteer to address their community's ongoing public health needs and to help their community during large-scale emergency situations.