Residents CERT-ified For Readiness In Lake Forest: Learn More About This Worthwhile Program

LAKE FOREST, CA — The latest class of Lake Forest's Community Emergency Response Team volunteers are being recognized this week, amid National CERT Week, according to the city.

These residents are carrying the torch of preparedness and service in communities across the country.

"During National CERT Week, September 20–26, the City of Lake Forest is proud to recognize our local CERT volunteers and celebrate this year’s theme," a city spokesperson said.

Since Lake Forest launched its CERT program in 2019, more than 50 residents have completed hands-on training in emergency preparedness, fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue, team organization and more.

They have learned:

1. Emergency Preparedness
2. Fire Safety
3. Emergency Medical Operations I
4. Emergency Medical Operations II
5. Light Search and Rescue I
6. CERT Organization
7. Disaster Psychology/Terrorism
8. Saturday Disaster Simulation/Exercise

Why join the CERT program? Lake Forest's proximity to natural parks and open space make it vulnerable to wildfires, according to the city. Plus, all of Southern California is earthquake country. "It's not a matter of if a major disaster will strike, but when. And when it does, it may take emergency responders as long as 72 hours to reach everyone who needs help," the website says.

This week, the city is highlighting some of your neighbors who stepped up to prepare for their community: Lake Forest’s 2026 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) class!

"Want to join them? The next CERT class begins Feb. 1, 2027. Participants will learn emergency preparedness, fire safety, disaster first aid, and light search and rescue through hands-on training," they said.

Learn more and join at www.lakeforestca.gov/CERT