What is the Community Emergency Response Team?  The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates citizens 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. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following a disaster by assisting first responders immediately following a disaster or helping with recovery efforts. CERT members are also encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.  To register please call 954.786.4510.

“CERT training gives you the decision-making skills and ability to offer immediate assistance to family members and neighbors without placing yourself in unnecessary danger.”

Hurricanes Frances, Jeanne, Katrina and Wilma are all hurricanes that have impacted the City of Pompano Beach since 2004. Other disasters such as tornadoes, fires, hazardous materials incidents and acts of terrorism have also proven that the initial hours following a disaster may overwhelm emergency and rescue personnel and volunteers are a valuable resource within their communities.  

Why Citizen Corps and CERT? After September 11, 2001, America witnessed a wellspring of selflessness and heroism. People in every corner of the country asked, "What can I do?" and "How can I help?" Citizen Corps was created to help all Americans answer these questions through public education and outreach, training, and volunteer service. The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is one of the programs of the Citizen Corps and is administered by Pompano Beach Fire Rescue and Emergency Management. CERT is a training program that prepares citizens to help themselves, their families and their neighbors in the event of a disaster in their community.

 “It's all about families helping themselves and neighbors helping neighbors to prepare, respond and recover in their own neighborhood.”

Sessions will require interactive hands-on training.  There are no examinations required to successfully pass this program, however your skills will be measured through practical exercises. Through the course, you will learn information which will assist your family and community during the first critical hours after a disaster.  At the conclusion of the program, students will receive a certificate and a volunteer CERT identification card.  Participant enthusiasm continues through service with our many on-going volunteer opportunities.

This Citizen Corps program is a joint partnership between Pompano Beach Fire Rescue and Emergency Management, the Florida Department of Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).