66°
DARIEN, Conn. – Looking to better help residents after natural disasters, Darien officials are forming an Emergency Shelter Task Force.
The group will be called upon only in the event of disasters to supplement the town’s emergency shelter response, according to First Selectman Jayme Stevenson.
Volunteers will receive two hours of shelter operations training, which the town will provide in partnership with the local chapter of the American Red Cross.
Over the past 18 months, Darien and the rest of Fairfield County has experienced what feels like an increase in hurricanes, freak snowstorms and other severe weather patterns, which in some cases have required the use of emergency shelters.
The new group would improve upon what the town already offers in the way of emergency services, Darien’s emergency management Director Marc McEwan said in a statement.
“This would greatly bolster our capabilities to provide for a local shelter operation in widespread disaster situations,” said McEwan.
Town officials are working out the details of the program, but the training sessions will be taught before the next hurricane season, or no later than June 1.
“Our Emergency Operations Team recognizes and supports providing a local shelter option for our residents in times of disaster," Stevenson added. "But we need the help of trained community volunteers to help provide this service.”
For more information, or to enroll in the program, call 203-656-7345 or email darieneoc@darienct.gov.
Comments