Community Corner

Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad Prepares for Hurricane Sandy

Additional crews will be on duty.

As Union County braces for the impact of Hurricane Sandy, Westfield's Volunteer Rescue Squad is preparing for the worst.

"The rescue squad is gearing up for the storm," said Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad president Reid Edles. "We are planning to have additional crews on duty as well as additional personnel on standby should the need arise. We are planning to have all three ambulances available." 

In the event that Westfield residents need to evacuate their homes, Edles said he is unaware of a designated shelter in Westfield. He advises residents to check with the Red Cross to find the nearest shelter. Click here to learn more about the shelter finder app offered by the Red Cross. 

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"There are specific requirements to be a designated shelter," Edles explained. "The rescue squad has, on a few rare occasions like a house fire, housed a few residents temporarily until the Red Cross finds shelters for these individuals. Temporarily means only for a few hours."

The Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad is funded entirely through tax-deductible donations. The squad is in its 62nd year of providing emergency medical services to the community of Westfield and beyond. Dedicated volunteers respond to traumatic and medical emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

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Located at 335 Watterson Street, the crew is currently seeking new members. To learn more about the squad, its mission or becoming a new volunteer member, call 908-233-2500.


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