CERT – Community Emergency Response Team
The CERT Training program is a nationally supported, locally implemented initiative. The program teaches people how to better prepare themselves for hazards that may affect their communities. CERT trains them in basic fire safety, first aid, and light search and rescue.
When you think of disasters, you may think that helping people during and after one is a job for First Responders only. But First Responders can’t be everywhere at the same time. That’s where CERT members come in. There are all kinds of things that community members can do to assist First Responders and it starts in your own home.
Fire Safety
Do you know how to use a fire extinguisher? Did you know that if a fire in your home is larger than a small trashcan, you should just get out of the house immediately and then call 9-1-1? How about how to safely use an extension cord or a surge protector strip? Do you own the special tool required to cut off the gas or water to your home? There is so much you can learn in the fire safety section of CERT training.
First Aid
If CERT members are first on a scene, they have been trained in basic first aid. Often they are able to do an initial evaluation, which they will share with First Responders when they arrive. The injured are divided into groups based on the severity of their injuries.
CERT Training Participants
The latest class included four members from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and three other newbies in a weeklong training. Then we participated in a mock disaster drill to practice the skills we were taught.This program has helped those of us who participated to be more confident in dealing with emergencies either at home or in our communities.
Mock Disaster Drill
CERT Graduates
Program Organized by BRACE
Be Ready Alliance Coordinating for Emergencies (BRACE) is a community -based disaster coalition that leads in emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts in Escambia County.
Trained volunteers collaborate with local, regional, and national partners to ensure the disaster readiness of our community. In the Pensacola area, they coordinate with Emergency Management in the event of disasters.
We encourage members and friends to consider obtaining this training. You will learn how to do things you didn’t know that you didn’t know. Then you, too, will be a useful CERT member. Contact BRACE at (850) 739-3981 for more information.