Will you be needed if a disaster strikes?

United Way of King County is gearing up for potential Hanson Dam flooding and an H1N1 flu epidemic by asking people to register as a Disaster Recovery Volunteer.  This resource allows you to be contacted if your skills and support are needed during an emergency. 

Will I be helping first responders?
Most disaster-serving organizations like American Red Cross have an existing pool of trained volunteers and likely won't need more. However, other organizations that many vulnerable people depend on for important daily services may need extra help during a disaster.  You will be part of an extra pool of volunteers, available to these organizations during a disaster. 
Remember, in a disaster the "response" phase is the first few days and the "recovery" phase occurs after that. You would most likely be needed during the "recovery" phase, a few days after the flooding occurs.

If I sign-up, do I have to volunteer?
No.  However, if a disaster strikes and you are not available, please update your profile so organizations avoid spending valuable time contacting unavailable volunteers.

Should I wait until I'm contacted?
Following a disaster please be patient if you wish to volunteer. Organizations will search the skills bank to find the volunteers they need; if they need your skill they'll contact you. We might contact all disaster volunteers if we learn of organizations needing broad volunteer support.  Under no circumstances should you go to a disaster area unless specifically connected to and requested by an organization. 

Is there something I can do now?
If you already have a skill you'd like to share in a disaster or emergency you can review opportunities now. Connecting now allows organizations to make the best use of your skills. To increase your qualifications to serve in a disaster, the best place to start is via the trainings held by Red Cross.  

How do I register?
To offer your skills in a disaster, please register here (or update an existing profile). Click "yes" when asked if you want to volunteer in a disaster and you'll go to the Disaster Skills Bank Area.