CERT - Certified Emergency Response Teams

The Importance of CERT in Community Safety

CERT programs are designed to prepare individuals to assist in emergency situations effectively. They serve as a critical bridge between the onset of a disaster and the arrival of professional emergency services. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the primary goal of CERT is to instruct volunteers in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, and team organization, which can be crucial during the initial hours after a disaster strikes.

Training and Skills Development

CERT training is accessible to anyone over the age of 18, with minors requiring parental consent. This training encompasses a variety of crucial skills:

• Fire Safety and Suppression: Understanding the basic principles of fire and how to safely extinguish small fires.
• Light Search and Rescue Operations: Techniques for search and rescue that maximize safety and help find and assist victims.
• Team Organization: Effective strategies for organizing and deploying volunteer resources according to the incident command system.
• Medical Operations: Basic medical techniques such as triage, treatment strategies, and establishing medical treatment areas.
• Disaster Psychology: Understanding the psychological impact of disasters on victims and volunteers, promoting effective response strategies.

These skills not only aid in immediate response but also enhance long-term community resilience.

Community Engagement and Preparedness

CERT members play a vital role beyond immediate disaster response. They are actively involved in community education efforts, teaching locals about disaster preparedness and safety. This proactive approach in community engagement helps in building a more informed and prepared public. Activities include:

• Educational Programs: Workshops and seminars on disaster readiness.
• Preparation Drills: Coordinated drills to practice emergency response plans.
• Safety Information Distribution: Providing critical information on disaster preparedness through various media.

CERT volunteers also assist vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, in preparing for emergencies, which includes checking and installing smoke alarms and preparing emergency supply kits.

Equipment and Identification

To perform their duties effectively, CERT members are equipped with specific tools and supplies. A standard CERT kit typically includes:

• First Aid Supplies: Essential for providing basic medical care.
• Safety Gear: Helmets, gloves, goggles, and hard hats to ensure personal safety.
• Communication Tools: Devices such as flashlights, bullhorns, and whistles to facilitate effective communication and coordination during operations.

Moreover, to ensure visibility and identification, CERT volunteers wear distinctive vests, caps, and patches. This not only helps in organizing teams during an emergency but also reassures the public about the presence of trained personnel.

Conclusion

The role of CERT in enhancing community safety cannot be overstated. By bridging the gap between disaster occurrence and professional response, CERT volunteers significantly contribute to minimizing damage and speeding up recovery processes. Communities with active CERT programs are better prepared and more resilient in the face of emergencies. For more information on how to get involved or start a CERT program in your community, visit FEMA's CERT page.

By fostering a culture of preparedness and volunteerism, CERT programs exemplify the power of community action in the face of disasters, making them an indispensable part of emergency management and response frameworks.