The activities we're offering through December 2008 include a class, a 72-hour emergency kit event, and a series of flu clinics across the Upper Merrimack Valley. Kindly follow up per the directions below if you'd like to participate.

I. FIRST AID CLASS (10/22 in Lowell)

Our unit has one remaining class scheduled for 2008, for which there are still spaces available to sign up:

SUBJECT: American Heart Association First Aid
DAY/DATE: Weds. Oct. 22
TIME: 6 to 10 p.m.
PLACE: Cross Point Towers in Lowell
INSTRUCTORS: Paul Womersley and John Mulloy
COST: $15 (payable night of class, to cover materials)
AUDIENCE: All members, especially non-medical volunteers

Completion of this course results in a two-year certification in First Aid through the American Heart Association. (We're providing the certification card and materials at cost; the course itself is free.) The course in March was well received, and was filled to capacity, with enthusiastic feedback.

The skills that members learn in a First Aid class are helpful anytime they may need to provide initial care in an emergency, even in the home or at work.

To register, call 978-399-2549 or send e-mail to Nburns@WestfordMA.gov, no later than noon Monday, October 20.

II. 72-HOUR EMERGENCY KIT / INTRO TO MRC (11/10 in Billerica)

We have one remaining event scheduled in 2008 that is designed to help local residents, as well as our members, learn about preparedness and the MRC. Participants can pre-pay up to two weeks beforehand, to assemble their own 72-hour emergency kits. The MRC part of the evening is free.

Monday, November 10 - Billerica (978-671-0931)
Town Hall Auditorium, 365 Boston Road (Rt. 3A), Billerica 01821
6 p.m.: Build 72-hour kits
[$50 check payable to Town of Billerica is due by October 27. Mail to:
Board of Health, 365 Boston Road, Billerica MA 01821]
6:30 p.m.: Introduction to the MRC

This event was rescheduled from its originally posted date of October 2. Please DO NOT contact the UMV MRC for this event. Rather, interested participants should sign up directly with the Billerica Health Department by calling 978-671-0931.

Our most recent 72-hour emergency kit event included participation from MRC volunteers, who helped local residents compile their kits and learn about preparedness concepts.

III. FLU CLINICS (10/16 to 12/2: Regional)

You are invited to call 978-399-2549, or send e-mail to Nburns@WestfordMA.gov, if you'd like to volunteer at an upcoming flu clinic. All skill levels are needed; including nurses to inoculate and fill syringes, first responders for medical screening, and non-medical members to assist with forms, clinic flow, and other functions. Most members enjoy this relaxing opportunity in which to serve their community, while interacting with their fellow volunteers.

Details about arrival times for specific functions, and other directions, will be provided when you sign up. Participants are asked to wear their uniform MRC polo shirts and badges; see the Coordinator if you still need these items. Most volunteers are encouraged to arrive up to an hour before the clinics open for their Just-In-Time training.