The City of Renton is actively recruiting volunteers to be part of the city’s Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT).
CERT is a nationwide all-hazards disaster preparedness program created by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. CERT volunteers are empowered to take on leadership roles in their neighborhoods following a disaster. It is also part of the national Citizens Corps program to increase preparedness through volunteerism.
“Emergency volunteers play a critical role in disaster response. They are the first ones on scene over 90 percent of the time,” Emergency Management Director Deborah Needham said in a press release.
The Spring 2015 CERT Academy is scheduled for 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, April 22 – June 6, City of Renton Fire Station 14, 1900 Lind Ave. S.W., Renton. Registration is now open for this session.
CERT graduates receive 24 hours of training in fire suppression, search and rescue, first aid, disaster psychology and team organization, and also will participate in a disaster simulation on June 6.
CERT-trained individuals are able to work as part of a team in their neighborhood in order to meet the needs of residents after a disaster. Classes are taught by fire and police department personnel and local experts. The cost is $25 for Renton residents and $30 for non-residents. To register go to rentonwa.gov, where a link is provided on the main page. Or go to Cybersignup.org, class number #53048.
