When considering emergencies, the first people to assist are often neighbors, friends, and co-workers. Neighbors, not professional first responders, typically perform 70% of all rescues in major disasters. The Boston Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program trains citizens to prepare for, and respond to, emergencies in their communities.
CERT is a critical component of the national Citizen Corps program, which aims to make communities safer, stronger, and better prepared through education, training, and volunteer service. Here in Boston, the CERT program is part of Ready Boston, Boston’s community preparedness initiative which encourages individuals to create a plan, make a kit, be informed and GET INVOLVED.
Through CERT, citizens learn skills and concepts that prepare them to assist victims, organize volunteers, and help their neighbors recover in the aftermath of a disaster. CERT also teaches people how to prepare their homes, their families, and their communities in order to reduce the impact of a disaster. Upon completion of the CERT program, you will be part of a team of volunteers that is ready and able to take action to prepare and protect your community.
