| Fun Fact! |
The Louisa Community Emergency Response Team was founded in February of 2000, predating the next oldest CERT in Virginia by more than two years!
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| What We Do |
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their
area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. 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.
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A Little Background |
The Community Emergency Response Team concept was developed and implemented by the Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) in 1985.
The Whittier Narrows earthquake in 1987 underscored the area-wide threat of a major disaster in California. Further, it confirmed the need for training civilians to meet
their immediate needs. As a result, the LAFD created the Disaster Preparedness Division with the purpose of training citizens and private and government employees.
The training program that LAFD initiated makes good sense and furthers the process of citizens understanding their responsibility in preparing for disaster. It also
increases their ability to safely help themselves, their family and their neighbors. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recognizes the importance of
preparing citizens. The Emergency Management Institute (EMI) and the National Fire Academy adopted and expanded the CERT materials believing them applicable to
all hazards. |
