Volunteer with BCEM Volunteers play a vital role at Benton County Emergency Management (BCEM). From lending a hand during our emergency preparedness drills, to answering the call during an actual emergency, people just like you help keep our community safe. The first step is to fill out an application for an Emergency Worker Identification Card. The application can be filled out at BCEM during business hours or during your first training class. A background check is part of the application process. If you are called to assist in an emergency in Benton County, you need to have the card with you. You can download the application and background form here. If you are renewing your card, please complete the initial forms and return them to BCEM to get your new card. More Volunteer Classes To sign up for any of these FREE classes, contact BCEM at (509) 628-2600. Unless otherwise noted, all classes are held at BCEM. Other Ways to Get Involved Benton County Emergency Management supports the Benton City COAD (Community Organizations Active in Disasters). COADs provide another way for residents to assist their communities in preparing for and responding to local disasters. The Benton City COAD was formed after a June 2000 wildfire burned a dozen homes and many more outbuildings in the city. The disaster came just four years after the Yakima River flooded nearly 25 percent of the city. The Benton City COAD is committed to assisting the community before, during and after a disaster. Before disaster strikes, the COAD focuses on emergency preparedness education, along with developing a data base of local resources that can be called upon in response to a disaster. During the disaster, the COAD is tasked with staffing an information center for residents, maintaining effective communications using telephones and bulletin boards, and distributing food, water and other resources. After the disaster, the COAD can assist with cleanup, provide information about what disaster assistance if available and share information on local resouces. The Benton City COAD meets quarterly at the Benton County Fire Protection District 2 station in Benton City. For more information, call the COAD at (509) 588-5848. |
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