Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT)
Following a major disaster, first responders who provide fire and medical services will not be able to meet the demand for these services.
Factors such as the number of victims, communication failures, and road blockages will prevent people from accessing emergency services they
have come to expect at a moment's notice through 911. People will have to rely on each other for help in order to meet their immediate life saving and life sustaining needs.
The Community Emergency Response Team concept was developed and implemented by the Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) in 1985.
Prior to 1985 Homefront Emergency principals had introduced one of the first then called Disaster Action Teams in Northern California.
This vison has now become a reality in many communities now known as CERT.
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.
To learn more about CERT contact your local FIRE DEPARTMENTS and RED CROSS CHAPTERS for local training information.
Below you will find our CERT products. These products can also provide you with the basic supplies in starting your own CERT or COMMUNITY ACTION TEAMS.
