What Is NEARA?
The North East Allegheny Response Association is one of five hazardous materials response teams in Allegheny County, and was established on October 8, 1986. NEARA originally was composed of 33 municipalities bounded roughly by Millvale, Natrona Heights, West Deer Twp., and the Borough of Plum. There were 42 volunteer fire departments and/or companies within those municipalities with approximately 100 firefighters interested in hazardous materials training. Eventually, 30 people completed the required 166-hour training curriculum required by the County of Allegheny, and the team became certified by the Commonwealth of PA to respond to hazardous material incidents.
The team currently has 28 active members, and serves 22 municipalities and 35 fire departments. The main truck is housed at the Highland Hose Fire Company in Tarentum, with satellite vehicles located throughout the response area. Our trucks are equipped with the latest Hazardous Materials equipment, each having encapsulated suits, the latest in monitoring equipment, and communications capabilities. The units are equipped with fire frequency radios that enable communications to every fire department in Allegheny County. We are dispatched through the Allegheny County Emergency Management Division and Enhanced 9-1-1 Centers.
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How Can I Join NEARA?
Team requirements
- 18 years of age.
- United States Citizen.
- No Felony Convictions or convictions of any degree for acts of dishonesty.
- Ability to complete 24 hours of training per year.
- Ability to participate in monthly drills and meetings.
- Hazmat Awareness Certified when applying, Hazmat Operations Certified within one year, and ability and desire to become a Hazmat Technician under Allegheny County guidelines.
- Valid Driver's License
Click on the Application link on the right hand side of the page.
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Who Do I Contact For More Info?
If you have any questions about NEARA, contact us here.
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