First Harford County Community Emergency Response Team established in Bulle Rock

The Bulle Rock community is proud to announce the graduation of the of the first class of volunteers for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in Harford County on Feb. 5th. This achievement is the result of collaboration with the Harford County Department of Emergency Management and the city of Havre de Grace. In accordance with FEMA requirements for governmental sponsorship, the Havre de Grace Police Department serves as the official sponsor for this initiative.

Police Chief Jonathan Krass of the Havre de Grace Police Department stated," The volunteers who have researched, organized and trained in the FEMA CERT program are exemplary. These dedicated citizens have prepared to assist first responder agencies, enabling Police, Fire and EMS personnel to focus on more complex tasks. While no one wishes for a natural disaster or emergency to impact our community, it is reassuring to know that we have trained, committed individuals ready to assist if needed."

CERT volunteers complete 24 hours of training based on FEMA protocols initially. Every class nationwide receives standardized instruction in Emergency Preparedness, Incident Command System and CERT Organization, Disaster Medical modules, (2 sessions), Disaster Psychology, Fire Safety and Utility Controls, Light Search and Rescue, and CERT and Terrorism. The Los Angeles Fire Department originally developed this program in response to the Mexico City and Japanese earthquakes in the 1980s, which resulted in significant loss of life. Observations following the San Francisco earthquake revealed that many residents wished to assist but lacked the necessary skills. As a result, the CERT program was established. In 1994, FEMA adopted and expanded the program to address additional disaster scenarios, including hurricanes.

While this first graduating group consists of Bulle Rock residents, future classes will be available to all residents of Havre de Grace. Additional information regarding class dates will be provided as soon as they are scheduled, most likely the end of March.

Any adult may become a CERT volunteer, regardless of physical abilities, skill level, or age. All necessary training will be provided. Currently participants must be at least 18 years old by the time of graduation; however there are plans to potentially establish a Teen CERT in the future. There are roles for everyone, including those who may not be able to deploy in the field during an emergency, such as logistics, record keeping, planning and instruction.

The primary objective of CERT is to provide the greatest benefit to the largest number of people. CERT volunteers are not trained to replace emergency service personnel or fire services, but they can provide first aid and offer supplemental support to emergency service functions and reduce the workload of professional responders where appropriate.

CERT responsibilities extend beyond disaster response. Volunteers may be present at community events in Havre de Grace, such as First Fridays, parades, and festivals. They may assist with traffic control or staff medical tents. Additionally, CERT members are available to provide preparedness education to both youth and adults.

For more information about the CERT program, and registering information, please contact us at:

CERT@bullerockcommunity.com We will be happy to contact you!