What is CERT?

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates citizens 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.

After CERT training, participants could do the following during an emergency:

• Organize volunteers
• Assist in evacuations
• Help reduce survivor stress
• Provide damage assessment information
• Participate in disaster drills and exercises
• Present fire safety education
• Assist in preparedness outreach
• Help address safety issues at school

CERT SKILLS CHECKOFF:

After finishing the online CERT training, students should complete an in-person skills check-off where they practice what they have learned to professionals. The Arkansas Tech University (ATU) Emergency Management & Homeland Security program provides hands-on CERT skills check-offs. Our team visits schools statewide to guide students and educators in integrating CERT on your school campus.

YOUTH Camp Details:

The Youth Preparedness Camp is a multi-day training event that includes all meals, lodging, CERT training materials, supplies, equipment, and CERT gear. The Youth Preparedness Camps encourages teambuilding and networking, develops leadership skills, and provides the FEMA Teen Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) basic training and certification. ATU hosts the Youth Preparedness Camp overnight for grades 10-12 and a day camp for grades 6-9 in the summer. Youth Preparedness Camp FAQ