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Community Emergency Response Team
(CERT) Training Program
Community Emergency Response Team or CERT is a basic program that provides residents with a basic training on what to do before, during and after a disaster. Most importantly the training aids the participant in protecting themselves and their family during emergency situations.
Trained CERT members may also participate in helping their community through organized municipal or county-level emergency management.
CERT started . . .
The Community Emergency Response Team concept started in 1985 in Los Angeles California. CERT program filled a vital gap where after a major disaster (like an earthquake) professional emergency services could be significantly delayed. CERT allowed trained neighbors to help neighbors.
CERT & FEMA
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) adopted the program in 1993 and gave CERT a national scope. Currently 28 states and Puerto Rico have a CERT program.
CERT & Bergen County . . .
Bergen County Emergency Management piloted a CERT program for County employees in the spring of 2002. During the fall of 2002 CERT training will be available at the law & Public Safety Institute in Mahwah. Applicants are encouraged to contact their Municipal emergency Management coordinators for Further information.
CERT Training Curriculum
· CERT & Disaster Preparedness
· Terrorism Preparedness
· Disaster Fire Suppression
· Hazardous Materials Awareness
· Bloodborne Pathogens & Public Health
· First Aid & CPR
· Damage Assessment (post - disaster)
· Protecting the Place
· The Incident Command System
· Gas & Electric Utility Emergency
· Special needs of the elderly and physically challenged
· Disaster Psychology
CERT & Terrorism
CERT Training provides citizens with information on how to help prevent terrorism and other crimes. Additionally, the training helps you know how to react if something happens near you.
Overall . . .
CERT training is a great way to feel more empowered to protect yourself, your family, and potentially your community. Don't wait for something to happen - help yourself NOW.
For Further Information . . .
On the Web:
www.citizencorps.gov
www.bcoem.org
Or call Bergen County Emergency Management at 201-599-6210
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