Developing a Community Emergency Response Team

A Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a group of volunteers trained to assist their communities during emergencies. This article outlines practical steps to establish a CERT, along with downloadable resources to assist in the process.

1. Understand the Purpose of CERT

CERT programs educate volunteers about disaster preparedness and train them in basic disaster response skills.

Steps:

1. Recognize the Need: Understand that first responders may not be able to meet the demand for services immediately following a disaster.
2. Educate the Community: Inform residents about the importance of preparedness and their role in helping each other.
3. Train Volunteers: Provide training in essential skills such as fire safety, search and rescue, and medical operations.

2. Recruit Community Members

Building a strong team requires recruiting committed individuals from the community.

Steps:

1. Host Informational Meetings: Organize sessions to explain the CERT program and its benefits.
2. Engage Local Organizations: Partner with schools, businesses, and community groups to reach potential volunteers.
3. Promote Through Social Media: Use social platforms to spread the word and attract volunteers.

3. Provide Training

Training is essential to prepare CERT members for effective response during emergencies.

Steps:

1. Develop a Training Curriculum: Include topics such as disaster preparedness, fire suppression, medical operations, and light search and rescue.
2. Schedule Training Sessions: Organize classes that total approximately 20-24 hours of instruction.
3. Conduct Drills: Regularly practice skills through drills and simulations to reinforce training.

4. Organize the Team

Effective organization ensures that the CERT operates smoothly during emergencies.

Steps:

1. Establish Roles: Assign specific roles and responsibilities to team members based on their skills and interests.
2. Develop Communication Plans: Create protocols for communication during emergencies to ensure coordination.
3. Plan Community Engagement Activities: Organize events to promote preparedness and strengthen community ties.

5. Collaborate with Local Emergency Services

Building relationships with local emergency services enhances the effectiveness of the CERT.

Steps:

1. Meet with Emergency Managers: Establish communication with local emergency management agencies to align efforts.
2. Participate in Joint Training: Engage in training exercises with professional responders to understand their protocols.
3. Share Resources: Collaborate on preparedness initiatives and resource sharing to enhance community resilience.

6. Evaluate and Improve the Program

Regular evaluation helps ensure the CERT remains effective and responsive to community needs.

Steps:

1. Gather Feedback: Collect input from team members and community participants after drills and events.
2. Assess Training Effectiveness: Review training sessions to identify areas for improvement.
3. Update Plans and Protocols: Make necessary adjustments based on evaluations and community feedback.

Downloadable PDF Guides on CERT Development

• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) TrainingThis guide provides an overview of the CERT program, including training topics and community engagement strategies.

  Download

• FEMA CERT Program OverviewA comprehensive overview of the FEMA CERT program, including training materials and resources.

  Download

• Building a Community Emergency Response TeamThis resource outlines the steps to establish a CERT in your community, including training and organization.

  Download

• Emergency Preparedness for CommunitiesThis document provides guidance on emergency preparedness initiatives, including CERT training.

  Download

• Community Emergency Response Team Program GuideA detailed guide on developing and managing a CERT program, including training and operational strategies.

  Download

• Emergency Management Training ResourcesThis guide includes links to various training resources for CERT members and leaders.

  Download

• Disaster Response and CERT TrainingThis document provides information on disaster response training and the role of CERT in community preparedness.

  Download

Conclusion

Developing a Community Emergency Response Team is a vital step in enhancing community preparedness and resilience. By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can create an effective CERT that will help your community respond to emergencies and disasters.

Read More

^{[1] https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/public-safety/emergency-management/emergency-preparedness/cert.cfm
[2] https://www.miamidade.gov/global/service.page?Mduid_service=ser1473875073344231
[3] https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/individuals-communities/preparedness-activities-webinars/community-emergency-response-team
[4] https://www.harvard-ma.gov/fire-department/pages/community-emergency-response-team-cert
[5] https://www.whitehall-oh.us/198/CERT-Program
[6] https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/departments-offices/homeland-security/community-trainings-involvement/community-emergency-response-team}