About Merrag

MERRAG (pronounced "mirage") follows, but expands upon, the curriculum used by CERT (FEMA's Community Emergency Response Training) to create a cadre of ready volunteers. These volunteers generally work and live in the Montecito area and are prepared to respond to a community disaster during the critical first 72 hours following an event. Since 1987, the mutual “self-help” organization has been serving Montecito’s 9,000 residents with the guidance and support of the Montecito Fire, Water and Sanitary Districts.

In 1993 MERRAG became a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit public benefit corporation, sponsored by Montecito Fire Protection District, Montecito Sanitary District, and Montecito Water District. Subsequent tax deductible gifts have allowed MERRAG to acquire equipment and other resources for use in disaster recovery. Now more than 60 institutions and home owners associations, plus MANY individuals at large, comprise this volunteer network.

MERRAG is a 501(c)(3) organization Tax ID: 77-0339622.

More about us:

The Montecito Emergency Readiness & Radio Action Group (MERRAG) is an official volunteer organization of Montecito's two public service agencies.  We exist to provide crucial personnel and communications support in the event of a community emergency.  

Readiness: We participate in training and certification for response and recovery teams, and community preparedness education. We operate and maintain a UHF Community Emergency Radio System and a Community Emergency Resource Inventory.  

Response: In the event of a community emergency we assist as requested with the set up and operation of the Fire District’s Emergency Operations Center. This includes but is not limited to staffing, supplementary radio communications, and field support.  

Recovery: We assist the Special Districts and the citizens of Montecito.

INFRASTRUCTURE IN PLACE:

Membership connected by two way radio network of 34 institutions and associations

Mobile communication vehicle with emergency power for service anywhere in the Montecito community

Emergency supplies.