There will be a public information meeting Saturday for Crittenden and Livingston county residents to learn more about FEMA's Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).
CERTs are forming across the country to help first responders in the event of disasters and emergencies. It's a minuteman type force of volunteers from the community, who can be called upon in times of need. Volunteers receive training throughout the year and become a certified team member after completing 24 credit hours of training.
Gary Ivy, CERT field commander in Salem, is a certified trainer. He will be forming a team of volunteers from north Livingston County and Crittenden County. Saturday's meeting is for anyone interested in learning more about CERT. It will start at 5:30 p.m., at the Salem Fire Department. There is no cost to volunteers.
CERT trainees learn to identify hazards, reduce hazards in homes and workplaces, extinguish small fires, assist emergency responders, apply basic medical techniques, conduct light search and rescues and help reduce survivor stress.
People interested in taking an active role in their community's emergency preparedness are encouraged to come learn more about CERT.
