What is CERT?
CERT, which stands for Community Emergency Response Team, originated in 1983 in California. Following the Whittier Narrows earthquake in 1987. FEMA recognized the value of community-based readiness in the event of a disaster and decided to make the concept and the program available nationwide in1993.
The CERT program is designed to bring together and educate interested citizens in preparedness for hazards and disasters that may impact their local communities. Training takes place both in the classroom and outside training exercises. The concept is centered around teaching basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization and disaster medical operations and many other skills such as CPR-AED and Stop the Bleed. One of the many strengths of the program is “there’s a place and role for everyone” regardless of skill level or background.
Hamilton County currently fields six local strike teams based in Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Cicero, and Britton Falls. Teams meet once a month. There are opportunities monthly for advanced training and skills building.
If you are interested in joining a local CERT program apply at https://hamiltoncounty.in.gov/CERT
Who Are The Friends of Hamilton County Emergency Services Corp.?
In 2013 CERT Services, a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization was founded by a dedicated group of volunteers to support the needs of the CERT program in Hamilton County, Indiana.
In 2021 CERT Services was requested to expand our mission to include the acceptance of donations supporting local emergency responders as government agencies are prevented from accepting donations. Upon agreement by the Board of Directors by-laws were amended, and Friends of Hamilton County Emergency Services was formed enabling designated donations to be accepted and distributed to Hamilton County Emergency aid organizations.