In a major disaster, first responders who provide fire and medical services will not be able to meet the demand for services in every neighborhood that may be affected. Factors such as the number of victims, communication failures, and road blockages will prevent people from accessing emergency services that they have come to expect at a moment’s notice through 911.
People will have to rely on each other for help in order to meet their immediate life-saving and life-sustaining needs. One also expects that under conditions like these, family members, fellow employees, and neighbors will spontaneously try to help each other.
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a national program by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that trains individuals in disaster preparedness and emergency response. The training is for anyone interested in helping others in times of emergency or disaster.
Basic CERT class facts:
- Classes are open to Adults and Teens (age 15+).
- Classes are held twice annually, once in the fall (Sept/Oct) and in the spring (Mar/Apr/May)
- Class size is limited to 20 students per session.
- Classes take place one night a week for a total of 7 weeks.
- The first 6 weeks are class instruction with a simulated exercise on week 7. Each evening session runs from 6:00-9:00 pm.
- Residents in neighboring counties (Custer, Lawrence, Meade, Fall River) are welcome to the training.
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training teaches:
- Emergency Preparedness
- Fire Safety
- Medical Triage & Disaster First Aid (includes Stop The Bleed)
- Light Search and Rescue
- Situational Awareness
- Disaster Psychology
Complete the CERT Interest Form to be notified when the next class registration opens or to volunteer as a victim for a future CERT exercise.