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Citizen Emergency Response Training
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(program details)
And What Do They Know About Disasters?
THEY HAVE RECEIVED Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) instruction in basic disaster response skills. Training emphasizes response to emergency situations by conducting initial size up to identify priorities—potential hazards, life-threatening injuries, and initial treatment. Although their training is aimed at response to major disasters, their skills will allow them to perform limited tasks on the scene of a smaller incident. They are each issued a photo ID and a pack with basic safety equipment and medical supplies, and are trained to fill the gap between the disaster impact and arrival of emergency responders.
CERT was started by the Los Angeles (CA) Fire Dept. to train citizens in basic response skills to provide immediate assistance to others in major disasters (such as earthquakes and wildfires) before the professional emergency responders arrive. The program was adopted by FEMA and has been expanded nationwide. In Florida, every county is encouraged to participate in the CERT program. Nassau County received a grant of $7,427 to develop and implement the County’s CERT program.
WHAT KIND OF DISASTER RESPONSE CAN THEY DO?
- Basic Fire suppression (size up, fire extinguisher operation)
- Hazardous Material awareness
- Light search and rescue (size up, cribbing, building marking system)
- START (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment)
- Basic Disaster Medical Operations (first aid, public health considerations)
- Disaster Preparedness
- Disaster Psychology and Team Organization (ICS concept)
- Provide an extra pair of hands once the “professionals” arrive
WHAT ARE THEIR LIMITATIONS?
- While acting within the scope of their training, they are citizen “volunteers” who are covered by legal liability laws under the Florida “Good Samaritan” act.
- They cannot perform the role of an EMT, paramedic, firefighter or law enforcement officer, but they may take instruction from them.
CERT TRAINING EMPHASIZES
- Personal Safety (if in doubt, don’t attempt assistance)
- Greatest good for the greatest number
For more information call:
Nassau County Emergency Management at (904) 548-4980
Or visit the CERT Homepage
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