CERT Basic Training Course
Basic Training Course: September 14 - November 9, 2023
The Prince George CERT is hosting a CERT basic training course from September 14 through November 9, 2023. For nine consecutive Thursdays, classes will run from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM at the Prince George Central Wellness Center (11023 Prince George Drive, Disputanta, VA).
The course is FREE and you do not need to be a Prince George County resident to attend. Attendees will learn basic emergency and disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Be prepared for hazards that may impact you, your family, and your area following a disaster or emergency. The classes will train attendees to assist family and others until professional first responders arrive.
TO REGISTER FOR THE UPCOMING BASIC CLASS: E-mail your name, address, and phone number to: pgcountyvirginiacert@gmail.com.
The nine (9) week Basic Training Introductory Course covers the following:
- Unit 1 - Disaster Preparedness
Introduction to disaster and its impacts - Unit 2 – CERT Organization
Team structure, operational decision-making, and documentation - Unit 3 – Disaster Medical Operations – Part 1
An Introduction to Disaster Medical Operations & Overview of Ways to Respond - Unit 4 – Disaster Medical Operations – Part 2
Major Functions & How to Assist in Disaster Medical Operations - Unit 5 – Disaster Psychology
Effectively dealing with the psychological impacts of disasters - Unit 6 – Fire Safety and Utility Controls
Identifying and reducing fire hazards and performing basic fire suppression - Unit 7 – Light Search and Rescue
Techniques for searching, lifting, and removing a victim - Unit 8 – CERT and Terrorism
Overview of potential terrorist weapons and targets - Course Review, Final Exam, and Disaster Simulation Exercise
With successful completion, you will be invited to become a member of the Prince George CERT, continuing your participation in outreach events, monthly meetings, and training opportunities.
View the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Basic Training Material online by clicking the following link:
https://community.fema.gov/PreparednessCommunity/s/cert-trainings?language=en_US