The American Red Cross, Cape Cod and Islands Chapter, is starting a collaboration with the Medical Reserve Corps on the Island in support of local disaster relief efforts.

Jim Thomas of Oak Bluffs, staff relations manager for the Cape Cod and Islands Chapter, American Red Cross said in a statement: “I am really excited to work with these medical volunteers. Every shelter the Red Cross operates needs trained medical personnel and this will be a great step in expanding the volunteers available for local disasters and bigger events.”

Shirley Fauteux of Oak Bluffs, director of the medical reserve corps here, added: “The combination of the two agencies working together will enhance the scope of care and services we are able to provide in the event of an emergency, which would include both medical and nonmedical volunteers.”

The Island chapter is looking for people interested in becoming a disaster action team member locally. Volunteer training courses will be scheduled at a time and place convenient for the volunteer.

For details on training classes or disaster preparedness, visit online capecodandislandsredcross.org or call toll-free 508-775-1540. You can also write to: American Red Cross, Cape Cod and Islands Chapter, 286 South street, Hyannis MA 02601.