Three local American Red Cross disaster volunteers recently received their national certification as emergency response vehicle (ERV) drivers. Robert (Bob)Jordan , John Metz of Fort Kent and Ken Urquhart of New Sweden, passed all skill levels included in the classroom and road tests taught by American Red Cross certified instructor Larry French.
Contributed photoFrom left, Robert (Bob) Jordan of Caribou, John Metz, Fort Kent and Ken Urquhart of New Sweden, all American Red Cross disaster volunteers, recently received their national certification as emergency response vehicle drivers (ERV).
The new drivers will be responsible for responding to local emergencies and Red Cross deployment missions throughout the U.S. Each will insure disaster victims’ needs are met by providing client casework services that include shelter, food, clothing, infant supplies and medical equipment replacement. In a major event, drivers and volunteers will distribute hot meals, clean-up kits and provide damager assessment and mental health services such as events during the 2008 spring floods.
“The Red Cross is sincerely thankful to these men for the many hours of training they underwent this spring and summer to become certified ERV drivers,” stated Joyce Knorr, Aroostook County branch manager for the Pine Tree Chapter. “Prior to taking the two-day ERV course, these new drivers had to pass three prerequisite courses totaling nine hours and were recertified in CPR and first aid training. The addition of three new drivers will help our Disaster Volunteer Team respond to many disaster relief efforts in the months and years to come,” Knorr added.
Red Cross ERV drivers must be at least 21 years old, pass a criminal background check, hold a valid Class C drivers license, have a clean driving record and pass a defensive driving course.
For more information on becoming a Red Cross ERV driver or to volunteer, call the Red Cross office at 493-4620, ext.108.
