Emergency response teams

The Office of Emergency Management collaborates with community volunteers to support Somerville residents during emergency situations.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

This team is trained in basic disaster response skills, including fire safety, search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. CERT volunteers provide assistance when professional responders are not immediately available to help.

To learn more about CERT, please contact Jason Kraska at JKraska@somervillenj.org,

Community Animal Response Team (CART)

This team provides temporary shelter for cats and dogs during natural disasters (floods and hurricanes) that require evacuation. CART volunteers register cats and dogs as they arrive at the emergency shelter and ensure  residents are able to visit and care for their pets at designated times. Depending on the level of shelter activation, CART volunteers may be activated to serve for up to 72 hours.

If you are interested in joining CART, please complete the volunteer application form.