West Orange County CERT is about readiness, people helping people, rescuer safety, and doing the greatest good for the greatest number. CERT is a positive and realistic approach to emergency and disaster situations where people will be initially on their own and their actions can make a difference. Through training, neighbors can manage utilities and put out small fires; treat the three killers by opening airways, controlling bleeding, and help to treat shock; provide basic medical aid; search for and rescue victims safely; and organize themselves and spontaneous volunteers to be effective.
You may ask why should you take CERT Basic Training, and that’s a good question. While First Responders, along with State and Federal resources will activate in a wide spread emergency or disaster, there will likely be a delay for them getting to those who need them. The primary reason for CERT training is to give people the decision-making, organizational, and practical skills to offer immediate assistance to family members, neighbors, and associates while waiting for help. While people will respond to others in need without the training, the goal of the CERT program is to help people do so effectively and efficiently without placing themselves in unnecessary danger.
Did you know…
In a wide spread emergency event like an earthquake, it could be 3 to 7 DAYS before any emergency responders are available to reach the neighborhoods and businesses in Western Orange County.
In addition to the CERT Basic Training, there are a number of courses offered to CERT members by FEMA. You can find these courses listed here on our Members page.