Disaster preparedness, response and recovery cannot be done effectively without the help of our residents through volunteering. There are several ways to give back to your community through disaster training and volunteer work.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Program
Neighbors Helping Neighbors, sponsored by the Office of Emergency Management, teaches residents the basic skills needed for everyday emergencies and large-scale disasters.
The program is offered several times a year at various locations throughout the County and includes sessions held once a week for five weeks; you don't need to attend every session, though we recommend that you try to attend most of them.
Experts from Emergency Management, Fire, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Police conduct the training. Topics include:
- EMS skills, including Hands-Only CPR and "Stop the Bleed" for trauma injuries
- Fire safety and use of extinguishers
- How to assemble first aid and disaster kits
- Calling 911; a tour of the Baltimore County 911 Center and Dispatch is included
- Crime prevention and awareness
- What to do before, during and after weather disasters and other major emergencies
- Community resources
Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Neighbors Helping Neighbors program has been suspended indefinitely.
Maryland Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD)
The Maryland VOAD is an association of organizations that lead response efforts, communicate urgent needs to the wider National VOAD network, and provide assistance to communities affected by disaster. By adhering to the 4 Cs (Communication, Cooperation, Coordination, and Collaboration), the Maryland VOAD effectively provides relief to impacted Maryland Residents.
The Maryland VOAD accepts spontaneous volunteers during a disaster, and is a great way to get involved. For more information, visit Maryland VOAD.
American Red Cross—Central Maryland
The American Red Cross supports Baltimore County Office of Emergency Management through disaster operations such as sheltering and feeding. The American Red Cross provides training and volunteer opportunities to the community to help build a more prepared region. For more information, visit American Red Cross.