The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates residents about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area. CERT trains county residents 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 and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.

The CERT training classes follow the FEMA curriculum, tailored to local disasters and hazards. It educates people about disaster preparedness for 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. Emphasis on hands-on skill development and Fairfax County protocols and procedures. Instructor will provide syllabus with class schedule at first session. This training does not require any special physical strength or agility.

For more information and to register for the next two classes at the Fire and Rescue Academy, click on the link below:

CERT 149 at the Fire and Rescue Academy - Aug. 28, Sept. 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25. Mondays and Wednesdays, 7 - 11 pm.

CERT 153 at the Fire and Rescue Academy - Sept. 30, Oct. 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23. Mondays and Wednesdays, 7 - 11 p.m.