The free-of-charge, 8-week training (for 24 total hours) is delivered by first responder professionals and covers the following:
Disaster Preparedness Small Fire Suppression Medical Operations and Triage I Medical Operations and Triage II
Light Search and Rescue Disaster Psychology Terrorism Awareness Disaster Simulation Drill
Participants also receive a manual and backpack with basic supplies. Graduates of Basic Training may participate in City and County events, take additional Incident Command System (ICS) and TEEX training, and compete in the annual CERT Rodeo. Participants may also form their own CERT alumni group for their business, school, place of worship, or subdivision.
Other CERT groups and agencies will facilitate advanced disaster response training, and they also allow CERT graduates to attend with a RSVP and badge. Almost all the courses are offered for free. Some courses also count toward CEUs.
Please email CERTGalleriaHouston@gmail.com to request more information on hosting a training at your place of worship, school, HOA, or business. You may also contact City of Houston CERT.
Managed by FEMA, the CERT Program trains ordinary citizens in how to help themselves and their neighbors in the event of disasters. In addition, because of the training that CERT Volunteers undergo, they are often called upon to assist in organized disaster response as well. The Houston CERT Program is a part of the Mayor's Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security and part of the Harris County Citizens Corps.
CERT volunteers give back and assist with public events including Extreme Weather Ready Expo, BP MS 150 and other agency safety events. CERT volunteers also serve on planning and hospitality committees for future training events.
CERT volunteers also sharpen their skills at opportunities like the annual Harris County CERT Rodeo with other CERT teams from the great state of Texas.
CERT INITIATIVES
1. Present citizens with the facts about what to expect following a major disaster in terms of immediate services.
2. Give citizens the message about their responsibility for mitigation and preparedness.
3. Train citizens in needed life-saving skills with emphasis on decision-making skills, rescuer safety, and doing the greatest good for the greatest number.
4. Organize teams so that they are an extension of first responder services offering immediate help to victims until professional services arrive.
WHY VOLUNTEER?
> Gives residents responsibility and personal control
> Brings together volunteers and first responders
> Demonstrates individual leadership and personal commitment for the safety of the community
> Builds community pride and patriotism
> Prepares you for the vital role of caring for others and ourselves in times of crisis
> Teaches how you can protect yourself, your family, and help your neighborhood
