Recognizing the critical need for community members to be prepared and confident in taking appropriate action, Washington County, in collaboration with the City of Johnson City, local first responder agencies, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is excited to announce the launch of its new Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training program.
This free, comprehensive program equips participants with essential skills and knowledge about potential local disasters and how to respond safely, swiftly, and responsibly. Applications for this course, held throughout Washington County, Johnson City and the surrounding area, are open to all local residents, and can be found on WC/JC EMA’s website (wcjcema.org).
“In the aftermath of a major disaster, the demand for professional responders can exceed availability. Our community’s ability to respond effectively in times of crisis relies heavily on the preparedness of our residents,” said Kat Latham, WC/JC EMA’s CERT Program Manager. “The CERT program provides an opportunity for individuals to not only enhance their emergency preparedness but also become an essential part of the first response efforts.”
Participants complete 16 hours of hands on training over two days (a Basic and Advanced Academy) covering various aspects of emergency response, including reducing fire hazards, setting up medical treatment areas, assisting responders, conducting light search and rescue operations, and more. An additional 12 hours of online coursework through FEMA rounds out the program. Upon completion, each graduate receives a certificate of completion and disaster supply kit. WC/JC EMA is proud to announce that over 30 local citizens have completed course work towards their CERT certification and 16 have officially graduated and are certified CERT members. (See attached photos. Credit WC/JC EMA)
The next Basic Academy will be held June 15, 8:30am-5:30pm, at Gray Volunteer Fire Department. The next Advanced Academy will be held this August, date to be determined.
“This collaboration exemplifies the strength that comes from neighboring communities working together toward a common goal of enhancing public safety and emergency response,” said Evan Clyburn, Interim Director WC/JC EMA, “I am confident that our joint commitment to preparedness will lend itself to a safer and more resilient region for all.”
Press Release Prepared by: Kat Latham, WC/JC EMA Operations Officer and CERT Program Manager
Media Follow Up Contact: Kat Latham, WC/JC EMA Operations Officer and CERT Program Manager klatham@washingtoncountytn.org
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