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Stay Safe with MERT: Emergency Response Info for Neighbors - and How YOU Can Help

Updated: Aug 25, 2025

So ... you have called 911, and contacted your MERT Zone Leader to inform them of an emergency situation.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT ?

  1. Your MERT Zone Leader takes charge of the scene, assesses the situation, administers CPT/AED/first aid if needed, and stays with the injured person.

  2. Your MERT Zone Leader will contact the local Mountainair Fire & Rescue Dept, informing them of the specific details of the emergency. (This is done in order to clarify any information that was communicated during a 911 call.)

  3. The MERT Zone leader issues the call for a medical helicopter (in qualifying event) or determines if ambulance transport is best.

  4. MERT volunteers help significant others to gather information for medical teams, assist with CPR/AED use or other first aid, help securing pets, help assisting the significant other, arrange transport to the hospital (helicopters only have room for the patient) and other critical tasks.

  5. MERT volunteers report to the landing zone (if indicated) to help with traffic control, landing zone set-up and helping the helicopter land.

  6. If indicated in certain cases (bad weather or type of injury) transport may be provided by ambulance. Typically, transport is to Univ of NM Hospital Trauma center, but the situation may require that another hospital be used.



Read on ... to learn how MERT volunteers in Deer Canyon Preserve assist our community:


Living in a close-knit community has its perks, like having neighbors who look out for one another.

In Deer Canyon Preserve, a group of dedicated volunteers has taken it a step further by establishing an emergency response program called MERT (Medical Emergency Response Team).

This program aims to educate residents on how to handle emergencies effectively and efficiently, ensuring the safety and security of the entire neighborhood.

In times of crisis, knowing who to call and what steps to take can make all the difference. MERT provides essential information on various emergency scenarios, such as medical emergencies, natural disasters, and community wide alerts. By participating in this program, residents can feel empowered and prepared to handle unexpected situations with confidence. One of the key highlights of MERT is its emphasis on local community involvement. Volunteers from within Deer Canyon Preserve are at the forefront of this initiative, offering their time and expertise to ensure that everyone in the neighborhood is well-informed and ready to respond in times of need. This grassroots approach fosters a sense of unity and support among neighbors, creating a stronger and more resilient community as a whole.

So, how can you stay safe with MERT? Here are a few emergency response tips for neighbors to keep in mind:

  1. Familiarize yourself with the emergency contact numbers for local services such as police, fire department, and medical facilities.

  2. Create a communication plan with your family and neighbors to stay connected during emergencies.

  3. Attend MERT training sessions and workshops to learn valuable skills like first aid, CPR, and emergency preparedness.

  4. Stay informed about potential hazards in the area and take proactive measures to mitigate risks.

By following these simple tips and actively participating in the MERT program, you can play a proactive role in promoting safety and well-being within your community.

Together, we can build a stronger and more resilient neighborhood where everyone feels supported and protected in times of crisis.

Remember, emergencies can happen when we least expect them.

By staying prepared and informed through programs like MERT, you can ensure that you and your neighbors are ready to face any challenges that may come your way.

Stay safe, stay informed, and stay connected – because in times of need, we are all in this together.


 
 
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