Encinitas CERT hosts Training Program for local residents

Did you know that FEMA and the city of Encinitas pay for local residents to be trained to help in the case of a major disaster?

In 2004, The Encinitas Fire Department started the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program to prepare residents for a catastrophic disaster. This program teaches citizens basic emergency skills and how to respond effectively to disasters as part of a team. The program includes special training for basic fire suppression and medical care. Volunteers will also learn how to size-up search and rescue situations, such as a collapsed building, for example, to determine whether it is safe to go in. This Free Academy is open to Del Mar, Encinitas, Rancho Santa Fe, and Solana Beach residents and is held twice per year in the Spring and Fall. The program was initially created by the Los Angeles Fire Department in 1986 and has now been established in over 1100 communities nationwide. Additional information is available online: http://www.enccert.org/about-us

Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.

The Training program begins with Orientation on October 19th at the Encinitas Community Center and will include 4 training sessions culminating in a Final Training Activity on Nov 5th. Limited space available. If interested please see complete schedule online and Register by sending an email to Alewin@encinitasca.gov and provide your name, email, complete address and telephone number(s). To learn more about Encinitas CERT, please contact Doan Hohmeyer, President, Encinitas CERT via INFO@enccert.org