As demonstrated by a variety of man-made and natural events that have already occurred during the 21st century, it is imperative that we help prepare residents and respond to emergencies. CERT volunteers help others following disasters when professional responders are not immediately available to help, and supplement and support the efforts of professional responders upon their arrival. CERT volun
teers also support emergency response departments by organizing and participating in local preparedness projects and initiatives. The CERT program educates participants about how to prepare for hazards that may impact their communities and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.
