Q: I just signed up to the InItLive system, what do I do now? 

A: Thank you for signing up to Volunteer! Expect an email from the Volunteer Coordinator within 24 hours with information on how to proceed. All Volunteers through the Department of Emergency Management (DEM) are required to register as Emergency Workers and undergo a background check. The authorization form can be found here, or will be provided when you visit our office. 

In addition to the background check, Emergency Workers are required to complete the WAC 118 Familiarization Exam, and four FEMA Independent Study Courses (IS). All of this will be provided to you when you come in to complete your background check, but if you want to get ahead all of the information is available on our Volunteer Homepage! 

Q: What are the benefits of becoming a Registered Emergency Worker?

A: Emergency workers are provided liability, medical, and personal property coverage as well as reimbursement for some incidental expenses while deployed on state-approved incidents and training events.  Full details on the program are contained in Washington Administrative Code (WAC) chapter 118-04 linked here: https://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=118-04

Since the program provides liability, medical and personal property coverages to our volunteers when they are responding on behalf of DEM becoming a Registered Emergency Worker is required for participation during incidents or trainings. Registration is not required to attend meetings or participate in discussions in order to determine which program the volunteer would like to join. 

Q: Where can I find more information on what FEMA Independent Study (IS) courses I need to take? 

A: Required FEMA IS courses can be found here. If you are looking for direction on additional FEMA courses to take, visit our training webpage.