CARMEL- Reliable communications are the lifeline for survival in time of emergency.
Putnam REACT (Radio Emergency Associated Communications Teams) provides public safety communications to individuals, organizations and government agencies to prevent injuries and protect property while providing assistance wherever needed.
The organization celebrated its 30th anniversary Saturday at a gala in Mahopac at the Putnam Golf Course.
Putnam REACT co-founder and current chief Warren Deitz of Holmes explained that he and his members “strive to establish a monitoring network of trained volunteers by using any and all means to deliver the message.”
REACT was founded in 1962 and within two years, the national organization created a CB emergency channel.
In 1972, Channel 9 became the official CB emergency channel under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission.
Since then, Deitz said “REACT chapters have watched over their communities by providing assistance in emergency situations.”
Putnam REACT also assists at a number of community events – in addition to the German Fest, Putnam’s Country Fest at the Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park, Run for Your Life, Tour de Putnam, Cold Spring Community Day and the Vet2Vet Chow Down.
REACT also assists in times of national tragedy with members of the local chapter supporting agencies at work at Ground Zero following 9-11 as well as assisting during the pandemic at countless immunization clinics.
Deitz said members receive a wide variety of training, including communications, first aid and traffic control allowing the volunteers to serve their communities by monitoring, reporting and assisting.
County Executive Kevin Byrne commended the men and women of REACT: “Thank you for three decades of service and for the remarkable work you do every day on behalf of our county,” he said.
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