How VERVs Will Be Contacted
During an emergency, it is essential to remain at home and wait for the Vermont Department of Health to contact you about where and when to volunteer.
The Department of Health will contact you using the Health Alert Network (HAN) system. The HAN system allows the Department of Health to deliver messages to public health responders using methods of communication YOU select, such as telephone, pager, cell phone, and email.
The messages will provide you with updates about the incident, and specific information about where and when you should go to help.
It is important to keep your contact information up-to-date. Once you have registered, information updates may be made by going to http://vthan.org/volunteermobilizer or by contacting verv@vdh.state.vt.us
Before volunteering, it is important to make sure your family is safe
The Department of Health encourages you to begin preparing now to protect your family during an emergency. This preparation includes:
- writing a Family Disaster Plan
- assembling a disaster "To-Go" box
- having an emergency phone list
- making plans for children, elderly relatives and pets
- talking about your role as a volunteer with your family
For more information on how to keep your family safe during an emergency, please visit the American Red Cross website at www.redcross.org/services/prepare/0,1082,0_77_,00.html.
Your safety is our first priority
By waiting for the Deparment of Health to contact you, we can determine not only where your skills can best be used, but also the safest place for you to work. Once you arrive to volunteer, personal protective equipment (PPE) or medications needed to perform your duties will be provided. You will also be provided with any necessary medication to take home to your family.
The Vermont Department of Health appreciates the service and dedication of the VERV members, and we will do everything we can to protect your health and safety. Waiting for us to contact you will help protect yourself and maximize our response efforts.