CERT (Community Emergency Response Team)

CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) is a national program designed to train local citizens in community emergency preparedness. This program equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to be self-sufficient and capable of responding effectively during emergencies.

Key roles of CERT members include providing immediate assistance to victims, coordinating spontaneous volunteers without training, and collecting valuable disaster information to aid first responders in resource allocation and prioritization upon arrival.

BayCERT

In the Seabrook, La Porte, and Webster areas, the combined CERT teams form BayCERT, working collaboratively to enhance communication and community awareness. BayCERT has been actively involved in various activities, including police dispatch, traffic control, aid distribution during events like Hurricane Ike, and shelter management during specific incidents. The team closely collaborates with the Offices of Emergency Management in Seabrook, La Porte, and Webster.

BayCERT conducts monthly meetings covering diverse topics such as CPR training, traffic control, team organization, and emergency animal control. These meetings feature speakers from various emergency response teams and professional programs. As part of the Harris County Citizen Corps and the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, BayCERT operates as a strictly volunteer organization.

History

The CERT program originated in 1987 after the Los Angeles earthquakes highlighted the need for additional assistance during overwhelming emergencies. The training covers essential areas such as first aid, fire suppression, search and rescue, disaster psychology, terrorism awareness, and communication with local emergency service organizations. The program is provided free of charge, spanning 24 hours, and divided into eight weekly classes.

For more information about BayCERT, visit www.baycert.org, and for general CERT information, visit Harris County Citizens Corps.