Minute With Mallozzi: New Canaan CERT

Last Monday I was invited to be the guest speaker at New Canaan CERT’s meeting at the . Attendance was high (as is usual at their meetings) and the crowd was engaged and interested in hearing what I had to say. Just to remind those that may be unfamiliar with the CERT organization, it is a nation wide volunteer organization that works with other emergency responders to provide services to help mitigate issues stemming from weather events, traffic accidents, major fires, power outages, etc. CERT stands for Community Emergency Response Team and Nancy Upton heads the organization.

CERT has proven to be a most valuable asset in New Canaan’s multi faceted Emergency Management infrastructure. What I find so fascinating about our CERT volunteers is the diversity within the group. All ages and genders are represented in the group.  Whether it is an expertise in the computer sciences, a propensity for directing traffic or a calming voice for answering questions while manning a phone bank, of the community.

I am often asked by citizens, “ Rob, I want to get involved in our town, where should I start?”

My immediate response is to recommend giving the folks at CERT a call. I can say that with confidence, as I am convinced that by helping our town get through its emergency challenges, citizens will recognize all that is wonderful about our community and feel rewarded by the help they will have provided.

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