Doylestown Borough is launching its first Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), a volunteer squad trained to help neighbors during emergencies when professional first responders are stretched thin.
An information session is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 7 to 8 p.m. at Borough Hall, 10 Doyle St. The session will cover how the new program works, winter weather preparedness and how residents can sign up, according to the borough's event page.
CERT is a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) program that trains civilians in fire safety, light search and rescue, disaster medical operations and team organization. The program started with the Los Angeles City Fire Department in 1985 and went national in 1993 after the 1987 Whittier Narrows earthquake underscored the need for trained civilian responders, according to FEMA.
More than 3,200 local CERT programs now operate across all 50 states, tribal nations and U.S. territories. More than 600,000 people have completed the training since the program expanded nationwide.
The borough said CERT volunteers would assist during large-scale incidents by sharing information, supporting neighbors and helping the community stay safe until full emergency services arrive. Outside of emergencies, team members would distribute preparedness materials, help run training events and assist residents in developing plans for severe weather, utility disruptions and public health crises.
Volunteers also receive training in basic first aid, communication and community support skills, the borough said on its CERT page. No previous emergency response experience is required.
The program is open to anyone who lives, works or cares about people in the Doylestown area. The borough said it is looking for students, working professionals, retirees and anyone willing to learn. Patch also covered the announcement.
Residents who want to stay informed during borough emergencies can sign up for Dmail, the borough's emergency notification list, through the OEM page.
To RSVP for the information session or learn more about joining the CERT team, residents can email [email protected].
