This free, bilingual program offers an alternative option for the traditional in-person classroom-based training. TheHybrid CERT Trainingincorporates 12 hours of online independent study followed by in-person skills training and disaster simulation. The online program consists of courses that educate volunteers in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, team organization, hazards that may impact their area and disaster medical operations. After the online training, members follow up with their local city CERT Coordinatorto complete a 16 hour hands-on, practical course over two days to receive CERT credentials.
The CERT program increases the response capability of citizens in the event of a major disaster. During these types of emergencies, first responders may not be able to meet the demand for fire and medical services. Trained CERT members can provide first aid, rescue trapped victims and engage in limited firefighting. They are also trained to coordinate response activities in their neighborhood.
Community members can register for the online course by visitingwww.vcfd.org/register-for-a-classand clicking the icon of the city they live in. Once the sign-up is completed, users will receive an email with the next steps for course completion.
To learn more about the Ventura County CERT program, visit www.vcfd.org/certor contact the VCFD CERT Program Manager, Captain Robert Ashby via emailCERT@Ventura.org
Media Contact: Captain Brian McGrath (805) 377-4860.