Millis Community Connect is a new online program available to all residents and business owners in the Town of Millis. It can be found at www.communityconnect.io/info/ma-millis 

This program allows these individuals to fill out critical information about their household or business that would be useful for first responders to be aware of in times of emergency. For example, if there was someone with a disability in the household, the fire department could be prepared to give any assistance needed in a timely manner. 

In terms of workplaces, if there were security systems to enter the building, access codes could be provided through the platform. Not only can you fill out information about those living in your household or working in your building, but anything about your property such as sprinkler and alarm systems, or even the pets you have. The main goal of this program is to minimize damage and losses of emergency situations, and increase the safety and efficiency of these situations.

Millis Fire Chief Rick Barrett explained how this was a possibility with First Due, an online platform designed for EMS and fire departments, utilized by Millis Fire. Chief Barrett saw this as a great opportunity and said, “Any chance you have to get vital information from your residents, and have it in a central location, is beneficial to everyone.” 

Millis firefighter Jason Wilson played a large role in pushing for this program alongside Chief Barrett. 

This program provides a benefit to both the individuals and first responders. 

Initially, in an emergency call, first responders may not be aware of vital information such as any disabled individuals living in a house, alarm systems in a work building, and more. But, with the program, users can list medical history information, spare key locations, alarm codes, and pet information to make the rescue process as quick and efficient as possible. For business owners, they could provide useful information such as hours of operation, building entrance, employee numbers and information, and anything useful for emergency responders.

While this program is new to Millis, the Fire Department has already had over 100 people create a profile and fill out information about their household or business. During the rest of the summer, Chief Barrett and Millis Fire will be making an effort to further introduce the program to the community and encourage residents and business owners to use the platform. Chief Barrett says he is happy to see the platform being used in other towns as well and hopes to see it grow in the community.