CERT Registration 

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates community members about disaster preparedness for the 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, CERT Members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event while professional responders are focusing on more complex tasks.

CERT Members are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects on their street, in their neighborhood, and in the community. 

Benefits to the Community

CERT Members have a better understanding of potential threats to their home, workplace, and community and can take steps to lessen the effects of hazards on themselves, workplace, and community.

When a disaster overwhelms local response capability, CERT members can apply the training leaned in the classroom and in continuing education to give critical support to their family, loved ones, neighbors, or associates in their immediate area until help arrives.

CERTs provide useful information to responders and support their efforts, as directed, at the disaster site. CERT members can assist with non-emergency projects improve the safety of the community. CERTS have supported the Fullerton Community by:

• Distributing and/or installing smoke alarms
• Replacing smoke alarm batteries for seniors and those with functional needs
• Distributing disaster educational material
• Providing support and service at special events (i.e. parades, sporting events, concerts, and more)

Why CERT?

Local government prepares for everyday emergencies. However, there are natural and man-made emergencies which can overwhelm the community’s immediate response capability. While adjacent jurisdictions, State, and Federal Recourse can activate to help there may be a delay getting resources where they are needed.

CERT Training gives trained community members the decision-making, organizational, and practical skills to offer immediate assistance to family members, neighbors, and associates while waiting for help.

People will respond to others in need without training, the goal of CERT is to help community members do so effectively and efficiently without placing themselves in unnecessary danger. 

Who can become a CERT Member?

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Possess a valid driver’s license

Adults of any age or ability can participate—everyone is invited to learn how to deal with disasters correctly.

Members of the community, religious organizations, school staff, neighborhood watch, and businesses are encouraged to participate.

CERT training classes are taught by firefighters, paramedics, and specialists the areas of disaster preparedness, response, and terrorism.

The trainers teach citizens how to help their family, their neighborhood, their districts, and the community in an emergency.

Persons requiring special accommodations are asked to notify the Fullerton Fire department staff at the time of registration.