CERT Initial Training
The CERT Basic course consists of thirty six hours of instruction, twice a week for 6 weeks. Each of the 12 class sessions is three hours every Monday and Friday morning from 9:00 to 12:00 noon. There are typically two training courses per year, one in February and one in October. Upon completion of the classroom and hands-on course of instruction you will attend a Disaster Drill after which you will graduate from training. At that time you will be assigned to a CERT team within your village area. Your education will continue through team meetings, general meetings, continuing education sessions and disaster drills all of which are held on a regular basis.
What Will I Learn?
- How to keep a friend, neighbor or loved one alive until professional emergency personnel arrive
- How to Provide a safe environment for yourself and others before disasters
- How to survive and cope during an overwhelming or catastrophic incident
- How to recognize potential hazards and reduce injury or damage to persons or property
- How to assume a leadership role with those who are not trained to deal with injuries or disasters
- How to identify and assist those who are traumatized from disasters or injuries.
Course Content
The course, which is funded by Homeland Security and developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), consists of the following:
- The CERT Organization & Disaster Preparedness
- Fire Safety
- Disaster Medical Operations
- Medical Practical
- Light Search and Rescue
- Disaster Psychology
- Terrorism and Haz-Mat and CERT
- Incident Command Systems
- Disaster Simulation
- CPR / AED / Heimlich Maneuver (Added locally)
